Lavender

Unearth lavender’s 2,000-year heritage, learn how to grow it, and savor its vibrant flavor in an inventive spice blend and recipe.

Meet Lavender

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is a woody perennial herb whose lineage is as enchanting as its aroma. Native to the Mediterranean region, this herb was cherished by ancient civilizations. Early Egyptians used lavender in the embalming process and in medicines, while the Greeks and Romans incorporated it into their baths and used it for its antiseptic properties. In medieval Europe, lavender became a symbol of purity and was often seen in monasteries and herb gardens, believed to ward off diseases and bad spirits. The herb’s enduring legacy is evident in its continued use in both healing and religious ceremonies across centuries. 

Common Uses and Benefits

Lavender has long been celebrated for its versatile medicinal properties, many of which are supported by modern research. It’s anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and loaded with essential oils used in everything from cosmetics to cuisine.

Here are some key benefits and traditional uses:

• Stress Relief and Sleep Improvement: The soothing scent of lavender is well-known for reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation. It’s commonly used in aromatherapy to encourage restful sleep.

• Anti-inflammatory and Antiseptic: Lavender essential oil contains compounds such as linalool, which can help reduce inflammation and fight infections. Historically, it was applied to minor cuts and wounds.

• Digestive Support: Infusions and teas made with lavender have been used to alleviate indigestion and relieve tension in the stomach.

• Natural Insect Repellent: When dried and bundled, lavender is often found in closets or drawers to keep moths and other insects at bay.

• Culinary: Its subtly sweet, floral flavor works beautifully in teas, desserts, and herb blends, while savory notes make it a stand out in meat and cheese dishes.

These benefits have cemented lavender’s status as an all-around natural remedy, blending beauty with practical health benefits.

Growing Lavender

Here’s how to plant and care for your lavender:

• Climate & Soil: Lavender grows vigorously in full sun (6+ hours daily).Well-drained, alkaline soil with neutral to slightly alkaline pH is ideal.

• Planting: Space plants about 2–3 feet apart for good air circulation; airflow will avoid mildew. Mix gravel into clay-heavy beds.

• Watering: Deep, infrequent; drought-tolerant once established.

• Pruning: Prune after flowering to keep it shapely and encourage new growth.

Lavender and Sustainability

Growing lavender is a sustainable gardening choice with multiple eco-friendly perks. It thrives in dry conditions, meaning it requires minimal watering compared to thirstier ornamental plants. Its perennial nature means fewer resources spent on replanting, and it naturally resists many pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments. Because lavender attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, it helps maintain biodiversity in the garden. Plus, its usefulness—from fragrance to culinary to medicinal—means it can replace multiple synthetic products with one beautiful plant. 

Harvesting & Drying Blooms

Harvest stems mid-morning just as buds open for peak oils. Prune lightly after the first bloom to encourage a second wave of flowers. Tie stems into bunches and hang bloom side down to dry. Once buds are completely dry, strip stems and store buds in a jar or other covered container. Keep dry and out of direct sunlight. 

From Garden to Kitchen

Lavender brings its aromatic charm from the garden to the kitchen, enhancing your dishes with floral notes and a touch of savory elegance.

Please note: not all lavenders are ideal for eating—though many are technically safe, only a few varieties are truly suited for culinary use. Always check the variety before using garden lavender in recipes.

The best edible lavender variety is English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia): the gold standard for cooking. Varieties like Munstead, Hidcote, and Lady have a sweet, floral flavor with low camphor content, making them perfect for both sweet and savory dishes.

Herb Blend: Lavender Citrus Salt Blend

Lavender citrus salt is a fragrant, zesty seasoning that can elevate both sweet and savory dishes with its floral and tangy notes. Use it on meats, seafood, roasted vegetables, cheeses, and baked goods. 

Ingredients:

• 2 Tbsp culinary-grade dried lavender buds

• 2 Tbsp fine sea salt

• 1 Tbsp grated lemon zest

• 1 tsp granulated sugar

• 1 tsp dried thyme (optional)

Instructions:

Toast lavender buds 1–2 min in dry skillet.

Combine all in mortar & pestle; grind until lemon zest disperses and salt turns pale purple.

Store airtight up to 3 months.

Recipe: Lavender Citrus Roast Chicken

A fragrant twist on a classic comfort dish. 

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (3–4 lbs.)

• 2 Tbsp Lavender Citrus Salt Blend

• 1 Tbsp olive oil

• 1 lemon, quartered

• 4 sprigs thyme or rosemary

• Freshly ground pepper

Directions:

Preheat oven to 425°F. Pat chicken dry.

Rub olive oil, rub in lavender salt + pepper.

Stuff with lemon & herbs; tie legs, tuck wings.

Roast 20 min at 425°F; reduce to 375°F, roast 40–50 min (165°F internal).

Rest 10 min; carve, drizzle pan juices. 

Bonus Recipe: Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies

A floral treat that melts in your mouth.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• ½ cup powdered sugar

• 1 Tbsp dried culinary lavender

• Zest of 1 lemon

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• ¼ tsp salt

Glaze: 

• 1 Tbsp powdered sugar 

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice. 

• Adjust thickness to your preference.

Instructions:

Cream butter and sugar. Mix in lavender, lemon zest, and vanilla.

Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.

Roll into a log, chill for 30 minutes, then slice into ¼-inch rounds.

Bake at 325°F (165°C) for 12–15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

Cool on a wire rack, glaze, and serve.

This blog post has been lovingly created by Sustainable Renton volunteers Max and Joni.

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