Desert Lavender Experiment

Abstract: This experiment was completed with the intention of testing if two specific plants were allelopathic. Allelopathicity is defined as “They are allelon which means "of each other", and pathos which means "to suffer". Allelopathy refers to the chemical inhibition of one species by another. The "inhibitory" chemical is released into the environment where it affects the development and growth of neighboring plants.” (Ref 1)

Introduction:
Have you ever wondered why certain plants do not grow around others? This phenomenon can be caused due to Allelopathy, or chemical inhibition. Allelopathic plants will produce phytotoxic compounds that will inhibit the growth of surrounding plants, affecting seedling growth.
This report was executed to specifically test if Desert Lavender (Hyptis emoryi), and Sunflower Goldeneye (Viguiera dentate) were allelopathic.
This plant thrives off of dense sunlight, but will grow in more shaded environments. Desert Lavender is noted for its aromatic compounds, which steadily attract pollinators. It is also considered to be a part of the family Lamiaceae, which contains mint, which is extensively used to by consumers to ingest and apply. Lavender plants has been used for many years to treat everything from wounds, sleep disturbances, and anxiety. Many ingest or apply lavender for general wellbeing too. With all the purported health benefits, Lavender does show signs of cytotoxicity, since it contains many potential allergens, mainly alpha-pinene. With this in mind, this experiment was conducted to meet the understanding of