Lavender is at its peak here now, its slim wands waving in the breezes, creating a fragrant blue mist. It’s part of the aromatic mint family. There are wild Lavenders, but most of the Lavender here appears to be English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), a cultivar shown below:
Lavender has been used throughout the ages for its fragrance and reputed disinfection and antiseptic characteristics. It was part of the Egyptian mummification process and an additive to Roman baths. Perhaps that’s why its name originates from the Latin verb “to wash.” (Brooklin, Maine)