Lavender Flowers
Lavender (Lavandula spp.) is a fragrant, sun‑loving Mediterranean shrub prized for its purple flower spikes, essential oils, and long‑lasting dried stems. It’s a staple in rustic bouquets and herb arrangements, offering soothing scent, attractive silvery foliage, and excellent drought tolerance when grown with sharp drainage.
Occasions & recipients
Find flowers by occasion
Best occasions
- Weddings (rustic/Provence style)
- Housewarming
- Get well/Recovery
- Mother’s Day
- Sympathy/Thinking of you
Suitable for
- Partner/Spouse
- Friend
- Mother/Parent
- Colleague
- Teacher/Mentor
Color taboos
- Deep purple can signify mourning in parts of Europe and Latin America.
- Purple may be associated with funerals in some cultures (e.g., Brazil/Thailand).
- All‑white bouquets can signal mourning in East Asia.
- Black ribbons/accents are generally inappropriate for weddings.
Card messages
At a glance
Key details
Quick reference for habitat, gifting etiquette, and safety when choosing flowers for different occasions and recipients.
Use this section as a practical checklist: where they grow, how to present them thoughtfully, and what to keep in mind regarding toxicity and sensitivity.
Botanical info
Taxonomy
Kingdom: Plantae; Family: Lamiaceae; Genus: Lavandula; Common species: L. angustifolia (English), L. stoechas (Spanish), L. dentata (French), L. × intermedia (lavandin hybrids).
Distribution
Native to the Mediterranean basin; widely cultivated in temperate regions worldwide. Major growing areas include France (Provence), Spain, UK, Bulgaria, the Pacific Northwest (USA), Australia, and parts of Japan.
Conservation
For cut lavender: recut stems at an angle, place in clean, shallow water, keep cool and out of direct sun/wind, change water every 1–2 days, and avoid overcrowding. To dry: strip lower leaves, bunch loosely, and hang upside down in a dark, well‑ventilated place for 1–2 weeks. For potted plants: provide bright sun, excellent drainage, water deeply but infrequently, and trim lightly after bloom.
Gifting & etiquette
Presentation etiquette
Lavender suits rustic, natural styling—kraft paper, linen, or burlap wraps, tied with twine or ribbon. Keep the palette soft (cream, sage, blush) and pair with herbs or wildflowers. Because the aroma is strong, check venue fragrance policies and avoid overwhelming scents for hospitals or scent-sensitive recipients.
Ideal delivery time
Early morning or early evening on a cool day to preserve fragrance and freshness; avoid midday heat.
Health & risk
Toxicity
Mildly toxic to cats and dogs if ingested (linalool/linalyl acetate; GI upset). Essential oils are more potent—keep away from pets and children. Generally safe for humans in culinary amounts, but avoid ingesting essential oil.
Allergenicity
Low pollen allergenicity; fragrance can trigger headaches or asthma in sensitive individuals. Essential oil may cause skin irritation—use with care and ensure ventilation.
Meaning & taboos
Symbolism & color
Lavender conveys tranquility, healing, and devotion. Its clean aroma symbolizes purity and protection, while the color suggests elegance and spiritual calm—often chosen to express peaceful support, grace, and affectionate care.
Growing & tools
Care & gear
Growing tips
Full sun (6–8 hours), lean well‑drained soil (sand/loam) with neutral to slightly alkaline pH (≈6.5–8). Water deeply but infrequently; avoid wet roots. Space for airflow. Prune by about one‑third after flowering to maintain shape and prevent woodiness. In cold climates, choose hardy types (e.g., ‘Hidcote’, ‘Munstead’) or grow in containers with gritty mix; protect crowns from winter wet.
Recommended tools
- Pruning shears/secateurs
- Hand trowel
- Soil pH meter/test kit
- Watering can with fine rose
- Garden fork for improving drainage
Symbolizes
- Calm
- Serenity
- Purity
- Devotion
- Grace