Lavender is a fragrant herb that has been used for centuries for its aromatic and therapeutic properties. The flowers of the lavender plant can range in color from purple to violet, which leads many to wonder – what is the difference between purple and violet lavender?
The Origin of Lavender
Lavender is native to the Mediterranean region, the Arabian Peninsula, and parts of Africa and Asia. The plant thrives in hot, sunny climates and dry, rocky soil. There are over 40 species of lavender, with the most common being English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and French lavender (Lavandula stoechas).
The ancient Greeks and Romans used lavender to scent bathwater and for its medicinal properties. During the medieval period in England, lavender was commonly grown in monastery gardens. The name lavender comes from the Latin word “lavare” meaning “to wash”, likely referring to its use in bathing and cleansing.
Purple Lavender Varieties
True purple lavender varieties feature rich, deep purple colored flowers. Some of the most popular types of purple lavender include:
- English Lavender – This hardy heirloom has vivid violet-blue flowers that bloom in summer.
- Spanish Lavender – Dark purple blooms on short stalks characterize this heat-tolerant lavender.
- Provence Lavender – A French hybrid known for its bold purple-blue flower spikes.
Here are some key details on these top purple lavender varieties:
| Variety | Description | Height | Bloom Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Lavender | Violet-blue flowers on silver-green foliage | 2 – 3 feet | Early to mid summer |
| Spanish Lavender | Vibrant purple blooms on short stalks | 1 – 2 feet | Spring through fall |
| Provence Lavender | Bold purple-blue flower spikes | 2 – 3 feet | Summer |
Violet Lavender Varieties
Violet lavenders showcase flowers in shades of light purple, mauve, and lilac. Some classic violet lavender types include:
- Lavandin Lavender – A hybrid known for its sweet violet blossoms.
- Fringed Lavender – Delicate lilac-shaded blooms with fringed petals.
- Hidcote Lavender – Compact with rich violet flower spikes.
Here are some key details on these top violet lavender varieties:
| Variety | Description | Height | Bloom Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lavandin Lavender | Sweet violet flowers on tall stems | 3 – 4 feet | Summer to fall |
| Fringed Lavender | Lilac blooms with delicate fringed petals | 1 – 2 feet | Summer |
| Hidcote Lavender | Compact mounds with rich violet flower spikes | 12 – 18 inches | Summer |
Comparing Purple and Violet Lavender
So what exactly is the difference between purple and violet varieties of lavender? Here’s a closer look:
- Color – Purple lavenders feature richer, deeper blue-purple hues while violet lavenders have softer lilac, mauve, and light purple shades.
- Hybrids – Many violet lavenders like Lavandin are hybrids, whereas most purple lavenders are old English lavender varieties.
- Scent – Purple lavenders like English tend to be more aromatic and camphorous than the mildly scented violet varieties.
- Uses – Purple lavender is prized for oil production, cooking, and aromatherapy, while violet varieties are popular ornamental garden plants.
This table summarizes some of the key differences:
| Characteristic | Purple Lavender | Violet Lavender |
|---|---|---|
| Flower color | Deep violet-blue purple | Light purple, lilac, mauve |
| Types | Mainly old English heirlooms | Many are hybrids like Lavandin |
| Fragrance | Very aromatic | Mildly scented |
| Uses | Culinary, aromatherapy, oil | Ornamental gardening |
Ideal Growing Conditions
In general, both purple and violet lavender varieties thrive in similar growing conditions:
- Full sun – At least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Well-drained soil – Lavender won’t tolerate wet or soggy soil.
- Minimal watering – Let soil dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.
- Pruning – Trim back in spring to shape and promote flowering.
- USDA Hardiness Zones 5-9 – Most varieties grow best in warmer regions.
One difference is that English and other purple lavenders are generally hardier, tolerating cooler climates and temperatures down into the teens (Zone 5). Violet lavenders prefer warmer zones 7-9.
Uses of Purple and Violet Lavender
Both purple and violet lavender bring unique qualities to a range of culinary and non-culinary uses:
- Cooking – Purple lavenders like English have a strong, camphorous flavor perfect for roasted meats and hearty stews. Violet lavenders lend a more subtle floral note to sweets like scones, custards, and jellies.
- Crafting – Dried lavender is beautiful in floral arrangements and potpourri. Purple lavenders provide bold color for crafts while violet varieties offer softer pastel hues.
- Fragrance – The rich, piney aroma of purple lavender makes it ideal in soaps, perfumes, and room sprays. Violet lavender’s lighter scent is perfect for lotions, creams, and more delicate products.
- Landscaping – Purple lavender makes striking garden borders and walkways. Violet varieties add soft color and texture to cottage gardens, rock gardens, and more.
Here’s a table summarizing some of the popular uses of each lavender color variety:
| Use | Purple Lavender | Violet Lavender |
|---|---|---|
| Culinary | Hearty stews, roasts, grilling | Baked goods, custards, jellies |
| Crafting | Bold dried arrangements | Pastel potpourri, wreaths |
| Fragrance | Soaps, room sprays | Lotions, creams |
| Landscaping | Borders, walkways | Cottage gardens, rock gardens |
Conclusion
In summary, the main differences between purple and violet lavender come down to the depth of color, lineage and genetics, fragrance strength, and best uses. Purple lavenders like English feature bold, aromatic qualities that make them perfect for cooking, crafting, oil production, and aromatherapy. Violet lavenders have a more subdued color, scent, and character best suited for ornamental and cosmetic uses.
So explore the many varieties of lavender to find the perfect match for your climate, gardening needs, and creative projects! With its beauty, fragrance, and versatility, both purple and violet lavender are prized additions to gardens, kitchens, and craft studios everywhere.