Lavandin constitutes the main crop on the Valensole plateau in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence department, about 1,902 feet (580 m) above sea level, where it stands for 80% of the crops compared to only 20% for fine lavender. Both the altitude and the nature of the soil are well suited to its cultivation. The more rustic lavandin is planted in full sun in the former bed of the Durance on clayey soil drained by pebbles. Lavender, more capricious, is more difficult to grow and harvest.