a bunch of lavender flowers on a white background

Lavender

Lavender Uses:

Fresh lavender is one of those wonderfully versatile herbs that adds beauty, fragrance, and flavor to all kinds of everyday things. You can tuck a few sprigs into a bouquet or mason jar for a naturally calming scent around the house, or hang small bundles in a sunny window or closet for a lovely, subtle air freshener. It’s also a great addition to homemade sachets and linen sprays—perfect for tucking into drawers or spritzing on your pillow before bed to help you wind down.

In the kitchen, culinary lavender (just make sure it's a food-safe variety) can be used in a light hand to infuse syrups, teas, lemonades, or baked goods like shortbread or scones. You can also mix it with sugar or honey for a gentle floral twist, or blend it with other herbs like rosemary and thyme in a savory rub. Whether you’re using it for scent, flavor, or just a touch of rustic charm, lavender adds a little something special wherever it goes.

white potted purple petaled flower
white potted purple petaled flower
purple flower in tilt shift lens
purple flower in tilt shift lens
lavender
lavender
clear glass candle holder with lighted candles
clear glass candle holder with lighted candles

Explore delicious recipe ideas featuring culinary-grade lavender

a plate of pasta with broccoli and parmesan cheese
a plate of pasta with broccoli and parmesan cheese

Lavender Scones

These buttery scones have just a hint of lavender—delicate, floral, and not too sweet.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 tablespoon baking powder

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ¼ cup sugar

  • 1–2 teaspoons dried culinary lavender (lightly crushed)

  • ½ cup cold butter (cut into cubes)

  • ⅔ cup heavy cream (plus extra for brushing)

  • 1 egg

  • Optional: a simple glaze of powdered sugar and lemon juice

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, and lavender.

  2. Cut in the cold butter using your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.

  3. In a small bowl, whisk together cream and egg. Add to the flour mixture and stir just until combined (don’t overmix).

  4. Turn dough out onto a floured surface, gently knead once or twice, and pat into a 1-inch thick round. Cut into 8 wedges.

  5. Place on the baking sheet, brush tops with cream, and bake 15–18 minutes, until golden.

  6. Cool slightly, then drizzle with glaze if desired.

Lavender Lemonade

 A light, floral twist on classic lemonade—perfect for a warm day!.

  Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender (or 2–3 fresh sprigs)

  • 1 cup sugar (or honey, to taste)

  • 1 cup fresh-squeezed lemon juice (about 4–6 lemons)

  • 5 cups cold water

   Instructions:

  1. In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of water with the lavender and sugar. Bring to a simmer, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and let it steep for 10–15 minutes.

  2. Strain out the lavender and pour the syrup into a pitcher.

  3. Add the lemon juice and remaining 4 cups of cold water. Stir well and taste—add more lemon or water if needed.

  4. Chill and serve over ice. Garnish with a lemon slice or fresh lavender sprig if you're feeling fancy!

Culinary grade lavender refers to the specific variety of lavender that is safe and suitable for use in food and beverages. Typically derived from the Lavandula angustifolia species, this type of lavender is known for its sweet, floral flavor and has a lower camphor content compared to other varieties, which makes it more palatable. When selecting culinary grade lavender, it is essential to ensure that it is free of pesticides and herbicides. Cartier Farms herbs are always grown this way, so they can safely be used in the kitchen!