Lavender

Forty different species of lavender are listed: lavender or lavandin?

A few words

on our mountain lavender

“At harvest time, the evenings are fragrant, the sunset colors are litter with cut flowers, the rudimentary stills set up near the cisterns blow red flames into the night”.

These words by Jean Giono open the imagination to smells, colors and the softness of summer nights.

Come and join us on an enchanting journey to discover this treasure of our valley.

Lavender cultivation:intangible cultural heritage.
In 2018, lavender cultivation was included in this world heritage list, thanks to the work of growers like Véronique Peltzer in Argens (04170).

Fine lavender

A member of the thyme, mint and savory family, this edible, non-toxic aromatic plant has been known since ancient times. Fine lavender, also known as true lavender, is grown in our valley because it is the only variety capable of withstanding our mountain climate. Very sunny climate, but also with significant temperature variations (diurnal/nocturnal). It is recognized as the noblest of all, thanks to the exceptional quality of its essential oil and its many medicinal properties.

Forty different species of lavender are listed:
lavender or lavandin? Observe the flowering stems:

1 single flower at the end of a single stem: true lavender offers itself to your gaze

1 flowering stalk with two flowering branches, you’re looking at lavandin (a hybrid of true lavender and spike lavender).

Did you know?

Before the 19th century, lavender was found in the wild on our territory.

Its cultivation only developed at the beginning of the 20th century, on sunny slopes with limestone and stony soil.

Abandoned for a time, it is now enjoying a revival, driven by producers who love this jewel of Haute-Provence, with its exceptional qualities and PDO status.

Discover the history of lavender

In Haute-Provence, Barrême, a small village in the Asse valley, has been the capital of lavender distillation since the early 20th century. The boom in this activity has given rise to 5 distilleries, undoubtedly boosting the local economy. Of this industrial heritage remains a single building dominated by its tall red and white brick chimney, now a museum dedicated to the history of this sweet-scented Provencal treasure.

Guided tours of the distillery museum