For those who prefer a mild, sweet, and predominantly floral aroma, the undisputed champions among lavender varieties are the English Lavenders (Lavandula angustifolia species). These are often referred to as "true lavenders" precisely because they possess the delicate, calming scent that most people associate with lavender used in aromatherapy, perfumery, and especially, culinary applications.
Here's why English lavenders are preferred for their mild or sweet aroma:
Low Camphor Content: The primary reason English lavenders have a mild and sweet scent is their naturally very low content of camphor (typically less than 0.6%). Camphor is the chemical compound responsible for the strong, pungent, and sometimes medicinal aroma found in other lavender types, particularly lavandins and spike lavender. A high camphor content can make the scent feel sharp, overpowering, or even "soapy," which is undesirable for many uses.
High in Linalool and Linalyl Acetate: Instead, English lavenders are rich in linalool and linalyl acetate.
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Linalool (chemically, an acyclic monoterpene alcohol) provides a fresh, floral, slightly woody, and subtly citrusy note, contributing to the overall sweetness.
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Linalyl Acetate (an ester formed from linalool and acetic acid) adds a sweet, fruity, and distinctly floral aroma, which is key to the characteristic pleasant and soft scent of true lavender. These compounds also contribute to lavender's well-known calming and relaxing properties.
Preferred Varieties for Mild/Sweet Aroma:
When seeking out lavender for its gentle, sweet scent, look for these popular English lavender cultivars:
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'Munstead': This is one of the most beloved and widely planted English lavenders. It's renowned for its balanced, sweet, and truly classic floral fragrance with very low camphor. It's a top choice for culinary use, dried crafts, and essential oil for relaxation.
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'Hidcote': Known for its deep purple flowers and intensely sweet, rich floral aroma. 'Hidcote' is another excellent culinary lavender, holding its fragrance beautifully when dried. Its compact growth also makes it popular for garden design.
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'Royal Velvet': This cultivar boasts beautiful, deep purple flowers that retain their color well when dried, along with a consistently sweet, inviting, and smooth floral scent. It's highly versatile for both culinary and aromatic uses.
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'Folgate': An early-blooming English lavender with bright violet flowers and a reliable, sweet aroma, often noted for a pleasant citrus-floral undertone. It's a good choice for both gardens and oil production for sweet applications.
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'Melissa': This variety often features attractive pinkish-white flower spikes and is described as having a sweet, floral, and sometimes subtly peppery scent, making it excellent for teas and desserts.
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'Vera': An heirloom English lavender known for its excellent cold hardiness and classic, sweet floral fragrance, making it a reliable choice for gardeners in colder climates who still want that gentle lavender scent.
Uses for Mild/Sweet Lavender:
Due to their desirable aroma profile, English lavenders are the preferred choice for:
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Culinary applications: Infusing sugar, honey, baked goods (cookies, cakes, scones), teas, lemonades, cocktails, and savory dishes (e.g., Herbes de Provence blends).
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Aromatherapy: For relaxation, sleep aid, stress reduction, and creating a calming atmosphere.
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Perfumery: As a middle or top note in fragrances where a delicate floral character is desired.
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Crafts: Sachets, eye pillows, and potpourri where a soothing, pure lavender scent is preferred.
When you're exploring a lavender farm, whether it's in Door County WI or another region, or when you buy lavender online from a reputable source like islandlavender.com, always confirm the botanical name (Lavandula angustifolia) and look for descriptions highlighting "sweet," "floral," "culinary grade," or "low camphor" to ensure you're getting the mild and delightful aroma you desire.