The Symbolism and Meaning Behind the Lavender Flower
With its sweet fragrance and delicate purple hues, it's no wonder that the lavender flower has captured the imaginations of people for centuries. But beyond its aesthetic beauty, lavender holds a special symbolic meaning that has evolved over time. Let's explore the rich history and significance behind this aromatic flower.
Lavender in Ancient History
Some of the earliest recorded uses of lavender date back to ancient Egypt, where lavender flowers were dried, wrapped into wreaths, and sold on streets. Ancient Romans used lavender to scent baths and washing water. By the medieval ages, lavender became a prime ingredient in England for a vinegar concoction known as “Four Thieves Vinegar”, meant to ward off the plague.
Victorian Floriography and the Language of Flowers
During the Victorian era, flowers were used symbolically to convey hidden messages forbidden to be spoken aloud. Lavender’s historic association with cleanliness and purity gave it the covert meanings of grace, elegance and youthful femininity in the “language of flowers”. Lavender was seen as a way for Victorian women to express romance in a discreet, acceptable manner.
Modern Symbolism of the Lavender Flower
Today, lavender flowers retain many of these traditional symbolic meanings. With their soothing aroma and delicate beauty, lavender continues to epitomize femininity and grace. Lavender flowers given as gifts can convey various romantic sentiments from new, budding love to deep devotion. Meanwhile, lavender’s historic ties to cleanliness and purity lend meaning to themes of virtue, innocence and faithful love.
The Multiple Uses and Benefits of Lavender through History
In addition to the symbolic value placed upon lavender flowers over time, the lavender plant has proven itself highly useful in a variety of practical applications.
Therapeutic and Medicinal Uses in History
There is evidence that ancient Egyptian, Roman and Arabic cultures used lavender to treat a number of medical conditions. Lavender has historically been used to speed healing of wounds and burns, soothe insect bites and headaches, and aide relaxation and sleep. By Tudor times, lavender had become a popular medicinal herb in England to treat ailments like joint inflammation and menstrual cramps.
Culinary and Household Applications
The antiseptic qualities of lavender have led to its use cleaning homes and flavoring foods for hundreds of years. Tudor housewives stuffed lavender into fragrance balls to perfume linens. Cooks across Medieval Europe used lavender to spice meats and wine. In the Victorian era, lavender features frequently in recipes for scones, custards, and other desserts we still enjoy today.
Modern Uses for Lavender’s Color and Fragrance
Though synthetic fragrances have replaced many natural aromatics, demand for lavender essential oil and dried lavender continues to grow as people seek more organic options. The gentle and pleasant fragrance of lavender lends itself to a wide range of products like soaps, candles, potpourri, room diffusers, pillow sprays, and linen spritzes. Its distinctive purple color has become iconic, featured not just in floral arrangements but crafts, home goods, baked treats, and aesthetically-pleasing health and beauty products.
How to Grow Your Own Lavender
If you find yourself falling in love with the sight and scent of lavender like so many before you, you can easily grow this magical herb yourself right in your own garden.
Choosing a Lavender Variety
There are over 400 varieties of lavender, with bloom times spanning spring to late summer. English lavender and Spanish lavender tend to be winter hardy. When selecting a lavender type, consider your hardiness zone, climate and the color you prefer.
Planting and Caring for Your Lavender
Lavender thrives best in well-draining, sandy or gravelly soil with lots of sun exposure. Amend soil with compost or gravel to improve drainage. Plant lavender 18-24 inches apart to allow airflow. Prune plants after flowering to prevent woodiness. Apply slow-release fertilizer in spring. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and deter weeds.
Harvesting Lavender
Time harvesting lavender flowers perfectly for the most fragrant, vibrant blooms. Cut back young plants only lightly in first year. In subsequent seasons, prune more aggressively. Harvest when the lower flower buds on the stem have opened. Cut stems long and bundle lavender flowers together to dry upside down in a dark, dry location.
Creating Your Own Lavender Keepsakes
Once you have your own fresh lavender blooms, there are so many beautiful keepsakes you can create with this special flower.
Lavender Sachets
Sew little bags from fabric scraps and fill with dried lavender or a mix of lavender and other dried herbs. Add one to your dresser, closet, or linen closet to gently scent clothing and linens. These fragrant sachets also make wonderful gifts.
Lavender Potpourri
Display the alluring sight and scent of lavender in glass bowls. Layer dried lavender with other dried flowers like rose buds or flower petals. Mix in decorative touches like wood rose beads or vanilla pods. Place your lavender potpourri in entryways, bedrooms and living spaces.
Lavender Crafts
Get creative with dried lavender! Weave tiny bouquets into wreaths and garlands. Glue individual buds to candles, mirrors and stationery for floral embellishment. Float lavender heads in tranquil tabletop water features. Sew whimsical little lavender animals or ornaments. The options for lavender crafts are endless!
With its timeless beauty and grace, the elegant lavender flower is sure to capture imagination for generations to come. Whether expressed through symbolic meaning, practical use, or artistic craft, lavender remains an enchanting, cherished botanical.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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