Lavender Fragrance Profiles: A Florist Guide
Lavender (Lavandula spp.) is one of the world’s most beloved aromatic plants, cherished for its calming, floral, and versatile scent. With over 30 species and countless cultivars, each type of lavender offers a unique fragrance profile, influenced by its genetics, growing conditions, and essential oil composition. Understanding these subtle differences is essential for perfumers, aromatherapists, gardeners, and enthusiasts seeking to match specific aromas to their purposes. Below is a florist guide to the fragrance profiles of the most popular lavender varieties.
1. English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
Introduction:
English lavender, often referred to as “true lavender,” is prized for its sweet, floral aroma and gentle herbaceous undertones. Native to the Mediterranean but widely cultivated in cooler climates, it is the cornerstone of traditional perfumery and aromatherapy. Its essential oil is highly valued for its calming and versatile fragrance.
Fragrance Notes:
Top: Sweet, herbaceous, slightly fruity
Middle: Floral, soft, calming
Base: Lightly woody, subtly balsamic
Key Cultivars & Aromas:
‘Hidcote’ – Intense, sharp, slightly camphoraceous; strong floral bouquet.
‘Munstead’ – Soft, sweet, less camphor; ideal for subtle perfumes and sachets.
‘Royal Velvet’ – Deep floral with a hint of spice; luxury blends.
Uses: Perfumes, bath oils, skin care, relaxation blends, sachets.
2. French Lavender (Lavandula dentata)
Introduction:
French lavender, also known as “fringed lavender,” is notable for its distinctive serrated leaves and ornamental appeal. Native to the Mediterranean, it has a stronger, more pronounced aroma than English lavender, making it a favorite for decorative gardens and potpourri.
Fragrance Notes:
Top: Sharp, slightly minty
Middle: Herbal, green
Base: Woody, faintly camphoraceous
Characteristics:
Less sweet, more pungent; can be perceived as slightly medicinal.
Uses: Potpourri, ornamental gardens, rustic fragrance blends.
3. Spanish Lavender (Lavandula stoechas)
Introduction:
Spanish lavender, easily recognizable by its “rabbit-ear” bracts atop the flower spikes, is native to Spain and Portugal. Its fragrance is more pungent and camphoraceous, giving it a distinct character compared to the softer English lavender.
Fragrance Notes:
Top: Camphoraceous, slightly medicinal
Middle: Herbal, resinous
Base: Woody, smoky undertones
Characteristics:
Aromatic intensity can be polarizing due to its sharp, medicinal scent.
Uses: Aromatherapy for respiratory support, insect repellents, rustic blends.
4. Lavandin (Lavandula × intermedia)
Introduction:
Lavandin is a hybrid of L. angustifolia and L. latifolia, combining vigor, high oil yield, and a balanced fragrance. It is widely cultivated for industrial essential oils, soaps, and candles, offering a more robust aroma than English lavender.
Fragrance Notes:
Top: Camphoraceous, slightly sweet
Middle: Herbal, floral hints
Base: Woody, balsamic undertones
Popular Cultivars:
‘Grosso’ – Strong camphor and herbal notes; used in soaps and candles.
‘Provence’ – Sweeter, closer to English lavender; light floral undertones.
Characteristics:
More pungent than English lavender, less medicinal than Spanish lavender.
Uses: Soaps, detergents, candles, aromatherapy blends, perfumery bases.
5. Portuguese Lavender (Lavandula latifolia)
Introduction:
Portuguese lavender, also known as spike lavender, originates from the Iberian Peninsula. Its fragrance is sharp, camphor-rich, and invigorating, making it distinct from sweeter lavenders.
Fragrance Notes:
Top: Very camphoraceous, herbal
Middle: Woody, slightly floral
Base: Resinous, balsamic
Characteristics:
Sharp, stimulating aroma; often blended with English lavender to soften intensity.
Uses: Aromatherapy for respiratory support, perfumery blends, medicinal applications.
6. Woolly Lavender (Lavandula lanata)
Introduction:
Woolly lavender is native to Spain and is known for its silvery, woolly leaves and understated fragrance. It is primarily grown for ornamental purposes but offers a gentle, calming scent suitable for subtle aromatic applications.
Fragrance Notes:
Top: Soft, herbal, subtle camphor
Middle: Mild floral, slightly sweet
Base: Woody undertones
Characteristics:
Gentle, understated aroma; excellent for calming blends.
Uses: Gentle perfumes, sachets, garden ornamentals.
Tips for Understanding Lavender Fragrances
Camphor content dictates sharpness:
High: L. stoechas, L. latifolia, Lavandin
Low: L. angustifolia, L. lanata
Sweetness vs. Herbaceousness:
English lavender: sweet and floral
French & Spanish lavender: more herbal and green
Blending:
English lavender blends with spike lavender to balance sweetness and medicinal notes.
Lavandin blends well with citrus and woody notes.
Harvesting & Oil Quality:
Early bloom: sweeter, fresher aroma
Full bloom: stronger, camphoraceous
