English lavender is a sub-shrub standing 30 to 60 centimetres tall. The violet flowers form single loose spike at the end of the stem. Despite its common name, it is a native of the mountain regions in the western Mediterranean basin. Narrow-leaved lavender, also called «true» lavender, can thrive in the mountains up to an altitude of 2,000 metres. Ever since ancient times, it has been known for its antiseptic and disinfectant properties. It is a bee-forage plant and highly valued by bee keepers.