Lavandula stoechas

Botanical Description

Lavandula stoechas is a spreading evergreen shrub with ascending stems; it usually grows around 20 - 50cm tall, occasionally reaching 70cm[ 2219 Title The Genus Lavendula Publication Author Upson T. & Andrews S. Publisher Timber Press; Portland, Oregon Year 2004 ISBN 0-88192-642-6 Description Very detailed study of the genus, its species and hybrids. An excellent work, very well illustrated ]. The plant is rich in essential oils and has a long history of human use. It is utilized through much of the Mediterranean as a medicine, as a flavouring in traditional foods and herbal teas, and for use in cosmetics etc. The plant is occasionally cultivated for its essential oil, it is used as a pioneer in reforestation and is often grown as an ornamental. Lavandula stoechas is a Mediterranean plant that is often a pioneer of disturbed or recently burnt sites. It grows well in other mediterranean climates, too well in some areas, and has been declared a prescribed weed in Victoria, Australia[ 2219 Title The Genus Lavendula Publication Author Upson T. & Andrews S. Publisher Timber Press; Portland, Oregon Year 2004 ISBN 0-88192-642-6 Description Very detailed study of the genus, its species and hybrids. An excellent work, very well illustrated ].