Many people dream of visiting Provence to witness the endless lavender fields. When the wind gently blows, it creates waves of warm purple, a beautiful sight that feels as though time has stood still in the presence of such beauty.

But did you know this little secret? Lavender is not just a single plant; it's part of a larger family.

The word "lavandula," often seen in the scientific names of lavender, has its roots in the Latin equivalent of the French word "lavande."

There are 28 different species of lavender found worldwide, and the lavender in Provence can be categorized into three main types: narrow-leaved lavender, broad-leaved lavender, and a mix of the two.

The narrow-leaved lavender is further divided into two varieties: Lavandula angustifolia (known as English lavender) and Lavandula dentata (known as French lavender).

Interestingly, regardless of where they grow, in their native Provence, France, you'll find Lavandula angustifolia, known for its cold-hardy nature and "narrow leaves."

The scent of this lavender is often described as the "authentic" lavender aroma, known for its calming properties, distinct from the invigorating scent of broad-leaf lavender.

Lavandula angustifolia thrives in Bulgaria and France at altitudes over 1,800 meters in the mountains and is often referred to as "highland lavender." This lavender variety boasts finer leaves and shorter flower spikes, making it ideal for crafting fine perfumes and fragrances.

On the other hand, Lavandula latifolia has broader leaves and longer flower stems.

It's native to the Mediterranean region, specifically southern Spain, and it grows at altitudes of 600-800 meters.

The species name "Latifolia" comes from the Latin word for "broad-leaved," perfectly describing this lavender variety.

Unlike its narrow-leaved counterpart, it has longer, more branched woody stems, resulting in larger clusters. The entire plant emits a strong, camphor-like aroma and is often used in cleaning products, insect repellents, paints, and culinary seasonings.

Lavandin, a hybrid lavender, is a blend of Lavandula angustifolia and Lavandula latifolia.

It's the preferred lavender variety in modern times and is commonly found in the lavender fields of Provence.

This natural hybrid can't reproduce but fully embodies the qualities of its parent varieties. It's especially prized for its higher oil yield compared to Lavandula angustifolia.

Lavender stands out with its exquisite leaf shape and blue-purple inflorescences. It's a cold-hardy perennial flower perfect for garden or potted ornamental planting.

Lavender has been revered for its divine qualities since ancient times. In the Roman era, it was widespread due to its remarkable properties.

Back then, a pound of lavender flowers could fetch a price equal to a month's salary for a laborer or a barber's fee for fifty haircuts. The Romans introduced the practice of adding lavender and various herbs to bathwater, which later became the basis for petal baths.

Lavender was believed to ward off impurities and enhance the bathing experience with its soothing aroma. In modern times, lavender is a popular ingredient in products like perfumes and essential oils. Depending on the product, it may go by various names, but its appeal remains timeless.