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Physical description: : Lavender is a bushy, branching shrub. Its lower
branches are woody, but the young stems are herbaceous. It grows
to about 3 feet tall. The violet-blue leaves grow up to 2 inches
in length with smooth edges. Flowering occurs in summer, with
blooms produced on terminating, wiry blunt spikes 6-8 inches
long.
Optimal growing conditions: Lavender grows well in drained soil located in
full sun. The plant is usually transplanted from vegetative cuttings.
Once it is transplanted, it takes a few years for the crop to
fully develop.
Susceptibility to pests and diseases:
No serious pest or disease problems
have been reported for this species
Use:
Lavender has been traditionally been used for antispasmodics,
carminatives, diuretics, nerviness, stimulants, and wines. It
can be used as an insect repellant and as a flavoring in salads,
dressings, fruit desserts, jellies, and wines.
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