French lavender

It is sometimes difficult to distinguish one Lavender from another.

To recognize Lavandula stoechas, look for the pretty butterfly-shaped flowers at the top of the stems.

It is one of the species that grows best in Corsica due to the siliceous nature of the maquis soil (most lavender species tend to grow on calcareous soils).

Its name comes from the Stoechades Islands off the coast of Hyères in the Var, where it originates.

Very unique, its earthy and rocky scent has nothing to do with the fragrance of fine Lavender. If you haven't had the chance to smell it, Christian Escriva describes it wonderfully in his book "Corsican Essential Oils."

Less easy to handle than officinal (fine or true) Lavender, pay attention to the precautions for use noted below before you start. Lavandula stoechas essential oil is traditionally reserved for professionals or experienced amateurs.

Despite its notable virtues, it is rarely used in aromatherapy. However, infusions of Lavandula stoechas are highly appreciated for their benefits on the ENT sphere in Arab pharmacopoeia, particularly in Morocco.

This is one of the many things learned about this variety in Christian Escriva's book mentioned above.