Lovely Lavender

"Nature is the art of God"- Thomas Browne

I woke up a few day's ago to a dead lavender plant in my living room and I thought it would only be fitting that I write about lavender. I had purchased the plant at a local farmers market by a very patient man. After answering a thousand of my idiotic questions, he finally slipped me a piece of paper on how to care for the lavender plant. He emphasized the fact that the lavender plant is not intended to grow indoors but I quickly dismissed him and his care sheet. Low and behold several weeks later my purple leafed plant turned into a vile putrid brown. I am now content on purchasing lavender in the future!

The lavenders (Lavandula) are a genus of 39 species of flowering plants. They are actually in the mint family. The lavender cross-pollinates very easily, which allows the plant to have many variations within the same species. The Lavender plant is thought to have originated in Asia but is typically associated with Western Europe. It usually grows best in dry, sandy, or gravelly soils with a lot of sun (my plant did not stand a chance of survival). Unlike most plants, the lavender can be used for food, fragrance, and as an sleeping aid. There are very few downsides to this plant. However, it is suggested to avoid eating this herb during pregnancy and while breast feeding.

While researching the lavender plant I came across some interesting facts. Ancient Greeks named the lavender herb after the Syrian city of Naarda. It was also referred to as "nard". There are also several Biblical ties to the lavender herb. Lavender was used in the Biblical Temple to prepare the holy essence and was also mentioned in Song of Solomon.

I have learned several valuable lessons from the death of my lavender plant.

1. Lavender can not be grown indoors!

2. Read instructions and follow advice accordingly.

3. Retire my green thumb until I have a place to garden!

Have a wonderful Labor day!

Love, Lili