| Lavender has been revered for its fragrance and healing properties throughout the ages, and is now recognized by modern medicine. The word lavender is derived from the Latin word lavare, which means “to wash”. It was originally used for cleaning clothes and for soaps, due to its refreshing scent. In addition to being a wonderfully fragrant herb, lavender has marvelous antiseptic, deodorant and insect-repelling properties. Today, lavender can be used to induce sleep, ease stress and, in some cases, relieve depression. It is also used as a compress for dressing wounds or to relieve sinus congestion, headaches, tension and exhaustion.
Lavender flowers yield a high-quality honey and can be candied for use as cake decorations; as an herb, either alone or as an ingredient of herbes de Provence; to flavor sugar, or in a blend with black tea, that is called “lavender tea.” Chefs have incorporated lavender into their cuisine for many centuries, especially in and around Provence, France. Lavender's beautiful flowers, which range from blue to purple, are used in potpourri and can be placed with clothing to give a fresh fragrance and deter moths. With more than 300 days of sunshine per year, silty soil, marine air from the north and the arid climate of the eastern Columbia Gorge (also loved by local winemakers). Hoffman Hills Lavender Farm has great success with the Grosso variety. This plant is hardy enough to survive the Gorge's sometimes freezing winter temperatures. Its deep, purple blooms and thick, medium-width leaves emit a robust aroma and are especially useful in scenting products and grilling foods. Our lavender is in full color and fragrance around the middle of June, peaking around the first of July. Visiting Hoffman Hill Lavender Farm and staying at our Guest Cottage at this time of year is truly a magical experience. |
