Family: Lamiaceae

Origin, Description & Uses:
Lavandula dentata, commonly known as French lavender or fringed lavender, is native to the Mediterranean region, including parts of southern Europe and North Africa. It is a small, evergreen shrub recognized for its soft, gray-green leaves with distinctive toothed (fringed) edges and its aromatic purple flower spikes. This species thrives in warm, dry climates and is well-suited to gardens with good drainage and full sun. French lavender is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant for its long blooming season and pleasant fragrance. It is also used in landscaping, container gardening, and occasionally for essential oils, sachets, and dried floral arrangements.

Risks & Threats:
French lavender is considered a low-risk species in Hawaiʻi. While it can occasionally persist in cultivated areas, it is not known to spread aggressively or naturalize widely in natural ecosystems. It does not typically outcompete native vegetation or alter habitats, and there is little evidence of significant ecological impacts. As with many non-native plants, responsible gardening practices—such as preventing garden waste from entering natural areas—are encouraged. Overall, Lavandula dentata is a suitable choice for ornamental use when managed appropriately.

High Risk Traits:

• Sparingly naturalized in New Zealand, Australia, and a few other locations
  
• Other Lavandula species have become weeds
  
• Unpalatable to deer and other browsing animals
  
• Tolerates many soil conditions (and potentially able to exploit many different habitat types)
  
• Spreads by gravity-dispersed seeds

Low Risk Traits:

• Despite ability to spread, no negative impacts have been documented
  
• Unarmed
  
• Non-toxic
  
• Landscaping, ornamental and medicinal value
  
• Source of essential oil
  
• Shade-intolerant (unlikely to invade forest understory)