Is French Lavender Safe to Eat
French lavender (Lavandula dentata) is not generally recognized as safe for human consumption by the US FDA. Unlike L. angustifolia, it contains higher levels of camphor and other terpenes that can cause nausea, vomiting, and digestive discomfort if ingested in quantity. The European Food Safety Authority has not approved French lavender as a novel food ingredient, and no major food company lists it as a certified edible flavoring. For current regulatory status, see the FDA guidance on food substances and the EFSA novel food register FDA guidance.
Poison control centers in the US and EU list French lavender as a low-toxicity plant, but recommend avoiding ingestion of leaves, flowers, and stems. The ASPCA notes that lavender species can cause gastrointestinal upset in pets, and similar caution applies to humans. Culinary lavender products sold in stores are almost always made from L. angustifolia or L. x intermedia, not French lavender. If you are considering using any lavender in food, verify the species on the label and consult a healthcare provider.
What Is French Lavender Used For
Ornamental and Aromatherapy Use
French lavender is grown primarily as an ornamental plant for gardens, borders, and containers because of its distinctive toothed leaves and long blooming period. It is also used in sachets, potpourri, and essential oil blends for fragrance, not for internal consumption. The essential oil is steam-distilled from flowering tops and sold for aromatherapy, topical dilution, and household scents, with no approved food-grade status.
Key Distinctions from Culinary Lavender
L. angustifolia (English lavender) is the most common culinary species, used in honey, syrups, baked goods, and teas. L. x intermedia (lavandin) is also used in food flavoring and fragrance. French lavender is differentiated by its higher camphor content, sharper aroma, and less common use in cooking. The International Organization for Standardization lists L. angustifolia oil as the primary grade for food and flavor applications ISO 6999.
Where to Buy French Lavender and How to Identify It
French lavender is sold by nurseries, garden centers, and online retailers as an ornamental plant. Major growers such as Proven Winners, Ball Horticultural, and local master gardener programs list French lavender under its botanical name. When buying essential oil or dried bundles, confirm the species on the label; products labeled "French lavender oil" may refer to the country of origin rather than the species.
To identify French lavender, look for narrow, serrated leaves, compact flower spikes, and a strong camphor-like scent. It is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11 and often used in drought-tolerant landscaping. For reliable plant identification and care guides, university extension services such as the University of Florida IFAS and the Missouri Botanical Garden provide detailed profiles IFAS extension.