Ingredient
Also called English Lavender
Purple buds with a clean, floral scent — calming, with a little goes a long way.
Purple buds with a clean, floral scent — calming, with a little goes a long way.
Use lavender sparingly; it can turn soapy. A pinch rounds out rose and lemon balm. It appears in Howl at the Moon.
In the kitchen
Use just ¼–½ teaspoon of dried buds per cup and steep 5 minutes. Too much tastes soapy.
Infuse a pinch into lemonade or iced tea, then strain.
Use only culinary (English) lavender. Sprinkle a few fresh buds over desserts or salads.
Grind a pinch into shortbread, scones or herbes de Provence for roasted vegetables and lamb.
Steep buds in honey or sugar for 1–2 weeks, then sift.
Use sparingly. Lavender essential oil should never be taken internally.
Garden & lore
Spring
Plant in spring in full sun and sharply drained soil. It dislikes wet feet.
Summer
Cut stems when the lowest buds have just opened, in the morning.
Fall
Trim lightly after flowering to keep plants compact, but don't cut into old wood.
Winter
Mulch lightly against hard frost and hang bundles to dry indoors.
Lavender belongs to Mercury — a clear mind, calm nerves and easier communication.
Traditional associations, shared for interest and reflection — not medical advice.
Used in
