The use of lavender as an herb is as old as written history, having documented use for 2,500 years. Perhaps first cultivated in the Middle East and Greece, lavender was brought to Europe around 600 B.C. More than likely the name “lavender” came from the Romans, who used it for bathing, cooking and perfume. Lavender was brought to the Americas in the early days of colonization, probably around 1600. Throughout the ages, lavender has been cherished by all cultures – not only for its fine fragrance, but also for its medicinal and culinary qualities.

As a plant, lavender has many facets. As an herbal medicine, it has soothing, relaxing qualities unsurpassed by other herbs. The oil in lavender has healing qualities and indeed is used in the treatment of many ailments. It is used as a “spice” for cooking, as a cleaning aid and as an antiseptic. It’s used in perfumes, bath oils and sachets. The lavender plant itself is beautiful and a great ornamental addition to a garden.

Our climate here in the Santa Ynez Valley provides superb growing conditions for lavender. The long, sunny, hot days and a dry summer season, coupled with the maritime influence from the Pacific Ocean mimic the Mediterranean environment. Lavender grown here is usually of the Lavenden variety, a cross between English and Spike lavender. The plants are hardy, tall and broad and are just another aspect of the beauty of the Santa Ynez Valley.

The Great Oaks Ranch lavender patch has been growing award winning lavender since 1997. The soils and climate of the Santa Ynez Valley mimic the historic region of Provence in France, where lavender has been grown for centuries. As this is the smallest lavender farm in Santa Ynez, we are able to personally attend to each and every plant, insuring that every stem is of the highest quality.

The Lavender patch produces both Provence and Grasso lavender. The Provence lavender is of exceptional quality and is used in culinary products. It has been sold out in each of its three years of harvest. The Grasso lavender has been sold to lavender aficionados all over Southern California. It is much sought after for its long-standing freshness as a cut flower and its remarkable fragrance when dried.

The 2001 Santa Barbara National Horse and Flower Show awarded the Great Oaks Ranch Lavender Patch its Grand Prize. Since 2004, the Lavender Patch has donated its lavender to the Santa Ynez High School Agricultural Department, the Department of Agriculture at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo and Solvang Theaterfest.