Algae, Fresh, Herbal, Lavender
Hybrid lavender, is the result of a spontaneous cross between true lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and spike lavender (Lavandula latifolia). It therefore has characteristics of both lavenders. The color of its flowers ranges from the intense blue-purple of true lavender to the grayer shades of the spike lavender. The latter is also the source of the hybrid’s hardy character and camphorated facet. Hybrid lavender is generally harvested in August. The flowering period occurs after that of true lavender and before that of spike lavender. The tops are mechanically reaped, then chopped by a forage harvester. Distillation is carried out immediately, with no drying period, thus is called “green ground” or “green crushed” distillation. The resulting essential oil is agrestic, floral, and camphorated.