Lavender is easily cultivated in Mediterranean type environments. There are over forty-five varieties. Check with your garden center to plant lavender suited to your climate zone. French lavender species grow well indoors.

Many English, Spanish and French lavender types shine in the garden with their stunning silver and velvet foliage.

Cultivate a lavender shrub section in your flower bed with spring bulbs and summer roses to have non-stop blooms from April to fall. The barrel shaped blossoms tip and bend in an array of mauve tones.

A study published in the Journal of Medical Microbiology found that lavender was a potent killer of bacterial molds. Meanwhile, researchers in Turkey tested lavender as a healing application for wounds and found that the recovery “progressed more rapidly” than with other controls. 

As a natural antibacterial and antiviral treatment, lavender essential oil is recommended and prescribed for cuts, scratches, insect bites, burns and blemishes.

In Aromatherapy, the usage of lavender is legendary. Its therapeutic properties are well-documented going back hundreds of years. It is valued for its calming, uplifting and soothing fragrance. 

Rub lavender oil on your temple to calm restlessness or ease a headache. I spray lavender on my pillowcases before bed to help with sleep. When packing clothes for the season, throw in lavender stems and flower bouquets to prevent moths and bugs. As a side benefit, it perfumes the stored box, trunk or closet.

Place dried blossoms in cheesecloth or a sachet and keep in your drawers. Make bath salts by adding fresh sprigs into a large mason jar of Epsom salts. From soaps to candles, lavender use is widespread.

My Epi orchid cactus just keeps on blooming. Neglected since birth, this plant thrives in the same corner, in the same pot, with no food – for the last ten years – happily exuding fire red bursting flowers.