Lavender is a small blue to purplish edible flower with a strong aromatic fragrance. Lavender buds can be used in marinades, salad dressings, and herb blends. Makes a beautiful garnish for baked goods.A silvery down covers the gray green narrow leaves, which are oblong and tapered, attached directly at the base, and curled spirally. The oil in lavender's small, blue violet flowers gives the herb its fragrant scent. The flowers are arranged in spirals of 6 to 10 blossoms, forming interrupted spikes above the foliage.