Difference Between Lavender And Lavandin

Understanding Lavender and Lavandin

When shopping for lavender products or essential oils, you may come across two similar-sounding names: lavender and lavandin. While they're closely related, these plants have distinct characteristics that affect their fragrance, therapeutic properties, and uses in candle-making and aromatherapy.

What is True Lavender?

True lavender, scientifically known as Lavandula angustifolia, is considered the finest and most prized variety. It grows at higher altitudes and produces a sweet, floral, and complex aroma that's highly valued in perfumery and aromatherapy. True lavender essential oil is known for its calming and relaxing properties, making it ideal for promoting sleep and reducing stress.

What is Lavandin?

Lavandin (Lavandula x intermedia) is a natural hybrid between true lavender and spike lavender. It's a hardier plant that grows at lower altitudes and produces a higher yield of essential oil. Lavandin has a sharper, more camphoraceous scent compared to true lavender, with stronger herbal notes.

Key Differences

Aroma Profile

Lavender: Sweet, floral, delicate, and complex
Lavandin: Sharper, more herbaceous, with camphor notes

Therapeutic Properties

Lavender: Highly calming, excellent for relaxation and sleep
Lavandin: More stimulating, better for respiratory support and muscle relief

Growing Conditions

Lavender: Higher altitudes, lower yield
Lavandin: Lower altitudes, higher yield, more robust

Price Point

Lavender: More expensive due to lower yield and superior quality
Lavandin: More affordable and widely available

Which Should You Choose?

The choice between lavender and lavandin depends on your intended use. At Passie Candles, we use true lavender in our luxury candles for its sweet, sophisticated scent profile that creates a refined and calming atmosphere perfect for relaxation and sleep. For our essential oil products, we offer lavandin, which provides a stronger, more invigorating aroma with excellent therapeutic properties for respiratory support and muscle relief.

We carefully select each variety to ensure you experience the finest, most authentic fragrances suited to their specific purpose.