Types of Lavender: English, French, Spanish and Lavandin Compared
The main types of lavender compared: English lavender, lavandin, Spanish and French lavender; hardiness, size, scent, flowering time and best uses.
There are about 45 species of lavender, but four groups cover almost every plant you can buy. For hardiness and cooking, choose English lavender; for oil and long stems, lavandin; for pots and showy flowers in mild climates, Spanish lavender.
Comparison
| Type | Height | Flowering | Scent | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English (L. angustifolia) | 30–60 cm | Early–mid summer | Sweet, soft | Hedges, cooking, dried bunches, cold gardens |
| Lavandin (L. × intermedia) | 60–90 cm | Mid–late summer | Strong, camphor | Oil, sachets, large borders |
| Spanish (L. stoechas) | 30–60 cm | Spring–summer, repeat | Resinous | Pots, mild climates |
| French (L. dentata) | 60–90 cm | Long, almost all year in mild climates | Mild, rosemary-like | Warm climates, containers |
Popular Varieties
- 'Hidcote' and 'Munstead': compact English lavenders, deep purple.
- 'Phenomenal': a hardy, heat- and humidity-tolerant lavandin.
- 'Grosso': the main lavandin for oil and dried bundles.
- 'Anouk' and 'Ballerina': Spanish lavenders for pots.
A Note on Names
"French lavender" means L. dentata in the UK and Australia but is often used for L. stoechas in the US, and lavandin is the lavender of Provence's fields. Check the botanical name on the label.
More Lavender Guides
- How to Grow Lavender: The Complete Guide
- Growing lavender from cuttings and seed
- How often to water lavender
- How to prune lavender
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between English and French lavender?
English lavender is hardier with a sweeter scent; French lavender is tender, with toothed leaves and long flowering.
Which lavender is best for cooking?
English lavender, because lavandin's camphor note is too strong.
Which lavender smells the strongest?
Lavandin, which also yields the most oil.
TarlaTapan guides focus on practical, field-tested growing advice. Corrections and suggestions are welcome at info@tarlatapan.tr.