Lavender (Lavandula) is a popular and easily recognizable herb known for its fragrant, purple flowers and aromatic leaves. While there are several plants that may resemble lavender in some aspects, it’s essential to pay attention to specific characteristics to differentiate them accurately. Here are 6 Plants That Look Like Lavender & How To differentiate them. Let’s start..
1-Catmint (Nepeta spp.)
Catmint leaves are somewhat similar to lavender but are generally larger and more heart-shaped.
Catmint flowers are typically shades of blue or purple, resembling lavender in color.
Key difference: The aroma is different, with catmint smelling more like mint.
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2-Spanish Lavender (Lavandula stoechas)
Spanish lavender shares the lavender name but has distinct characteristics.
It has the typical lavender fragrance but boasts unusual pineapple-shaped flower heads with colorful bracts on top.
Key difference: The unique flower shape sets it apart from traditional lavender.
3- Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia)
Russian sage has similar gray-green, narrow leaves as lavender.
The flowers are a bluish-purple color, like lavender, but they grow on tall, woody stems.
Key difference: Russian sage has a more silvery appearance and a different growth habit.
4-Heliotrope (Heliotropium arborescens)
Heliotrope has dark green, oval leaves that may be confused with lavender.
The flowers are usually deep purple or violet, like lavender, and have a sweet, vanilla-like fragrance.
Key difference: The distinct fragrance and the rounded leaves help differentiate it from lavender.
5-Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis)
Hyssop leaves resemble those of lavender but are typically darker green and smaller.
The flowers come in various colors, including purple, blue, and pink.
Key difference: The flowers grow in dense spikes, and hyssop has a more herbal scent compared to lavender.
6. French Lavender (Lavandula dentata)
French Lavender leaves are gray-green toothed and have a scalloped edge, unlike the narrow, smooth leaves of common lavender.
Flowers are typically featuring purple-blue flowers similar in color to true lavender but with a more pronounced tufted appearance at the top of the flower spike.
Key difference: French lavender tends to be shorter and more compact than traditional lavender varieties.
While these plants may closely resemble lavender in some aspects, each has unique features that set it apart. Remember to pay attention to the specific characteristics mentioned to accurately differentiate and care for these lavender look-alikes in your garden. To differentiate these plants from true lavender, consider factors such as leaf shape, size, and color, as well as the appearance of the flowers and their scent. Familiarize yourself with these characteristics to ensure you can accurately identify plants that look like lavender in your garden or surroundings. Happy Gardening…
