At first coup d’oeil , alilac vs. lavendercomparison might seem like a trick interrogative sentence . Both belong to the lilac-colored family of pale majestic shades , and both bring to head springtime blossom , calm atmospheres and fragrant flowers .
But take a close look , and you ’ll find subtle differences and discrete characteristic that set these diffused pastels apart .
From flower species to color undertone and even uses in essential oils , the differences between lilac and lavender span vegetation , color theory and lifestyle coating .
Key Differences at a Glance
Origins and Plant Profiles
Lilac flowers add up from theSyringa vulgaris , a deciduous bush in the olive family . These flower , often seen in the spring exude a strong , mellisonant floral aroma .
Lavender flowers , on the other paw , arise from theLavandula angustifolia , a appendage of the mint syndicate . With spikes rising from woody stem , mixture like English lavender and French lavender are usually used for their calming and soothing prop .
Shades and Undertones
In terms of color theory , both lilac and lavender fall within the majestic family , but they have their difference .
A rich lilac tends to carry a pinkish chromaticity or pinkish undertone , offering a warm feel . You might describe pale lilac as make a light purple appearance , often associated with youthful innocence .
Lavender , conversely , leans toward a bluish tinge , giving it cooler chromaticity and grey-haired undertones .
Both pale purple colour are part of a advanced colouring pallet . Even a mystifying lilac often reads as a delicate , romantic shade , while a pale lavender color tend to appear more serene . In some lighting , lavender may even resemble a medium purple with elusive blue or gray undertones .
Scent and Uses
The lilac plant is know for its distinct aroma and is frequently used in indispensable oil for its calming and soothing property . It has a more herbaceous , clean scent . Lilac , meanwhile , has a scented , more acute floral fragrance that is n’t typically used in indispensable oils but is highly prized in perfumes .
Lavender is also favour for culinary purposes and appears in teas , scorched goods and even spice blending . Lilac , though fragrant , is more ornamental in nature .
Visual and Sensory Appeal
In home decor , the semblance lavender can bring up a calming atmosphere paragon for chamber and meditation spaces . The blue undercurrent give it a cooler chromaticity that works well with Edward White , gray and soft greens .
Lilac and lavender shade both appear in sophisticated internal design , but lilac adds a scrap more warmness with its pink undertone .
A wall paint in a soft majestic color can feel intimate or serene . Thesemuted colorscontribute to a gentle , pastel aesthetic often used in bound theme or minimalist interior .
Cultural and Emotional Associations
Color psychological science associates lavender with calm , peace and healing . Lilac is tie to emotion like love , nostalgia and younker . Both color have tooth root in symbolization : Lavender is often link to pureness and spirituality , while lilac has connections to first passion and femininity .
Similarities Between Lilac and Lavender
Each plant raise indulgent , pallid over-embellished petals in bunch on thin stem . Their shared visual prayer and flowered fragrance have made them favorites in home decor , wedding party themes , and fashion .
So , next time you see a light over-embellished fragrancy or shop for that perfect quiet key coloration , remember the subtle yet charming distinctions of lilac vs. lavender . Both colors — and the plants they typify — add stunner , aroma and a splash of spring to our lives .
We created this article in conjunction with AI technology , then made certain it was fact - checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor program .
