Flower favour focus: Lavender
With its distinct relaxing scent and pretty purple blooms, it’s no surprise that lavender is one of the most recognisable flowers during the British summer – especially with beautiful country fields laden with the delicate lilac flowers. Of course, being so swoonworthy, lavender makes a welcome appearance at romantic rustic weddings, in bouquets, jam jars and even in boho-style flower crowns.
In our latest of our flower focus series (see more about our fave fleurs here!), we’re looking at lovely lavender to help you decide whether to have it at your big day...
Where does lavender come from?
Lavender (known also as lavandula) first dates back to the Roman times, and now has over 47 species growing everywhere from Cape Verde to the Canary Islands, Africa to Europe, the Mediterranean, southeast Asia to southwest India. As it has a calming scent, it’s well-known for use in alternative therapies and essential oils.
The meaning for the name lavender is thought to derive from the old French word: lavandre, which comes from the Latin name: lavare – to wash, which is no surprise, giving lavender’s clean scent.
How do you grow lavender?
Lavender seeds can be planted from February to July, and can take up to three months to grow – so be patient. First things first, the seeds need to germinate. You can do this by planting the seeds in a seed tray and covering with well draining soil. This needs to be kept moist and warm as the seeds sprout.
Within two weeks you should start to see bouts of leaves grow. It’s then time to plant them outside in your chosen spot. Don’t be disheartened if you don’t see much growth though, as lavender grows slowly in the first year and then bursts into life during its second year.
Is lavender good for bees?
Yes! These pretty purple blooms are rich in nectar, so lavender is a favourite flower for bees. And as bumble bees feast on the nectar, or honey bees collect it to take back to the hive, pollen rubs off on their furry bodies which they take to other flowers, encouraging cross fertilisation. So as well as feeding the bees you’re helping grow new flowers! Honey made from bees who are partial to some tasty lavender also has a lavender-esque flavour. Yum!
Lavender as wedding flowers
With a musky, tranquil scent and relaxed, understated look, as well as old beliefs that it is lucky, lavender is understandably a fabulous flower for weddings. Whether in a hand-tied bouquet (which’ll smell wonderful as you strut down the aisle!), in simple but effective table arrangements or in gorgeous flower crowns and jam jar displays, lavender never fails to delight and is oh-so Instagrammable!
Loving lavender? You're not the only one – due to demand, we're SO EXCITED to announce that very soon, we'll be stocking our very own lavender seed favour range! Keep your eyes peeled to our Instagram and Facebook to hear more!
Fancy reading more about other gorgeous wedding flowers? Take a peek here.