Lavandula angustifolia 'Hidcote'

• Pollinators: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, making it an excellent choice for pollinator gardens.

• Wildlife: Deer-resistant and rabbit-resistant, helping it thrive in wildlife-prone areas.

• Season: Spring through Fall
• Flowering Season: Late spring to early summer, with the potential for a second flush of blooms in late summer if deadheaded
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5-9

– Herb gardens – cottage gardens – borders and edging – rock gardens – container planting – pollinator gardens – fragrance gardens – dried or fresh cut flower arrangements – low hedging

• Color: Silvery-green, narrow leaves provide a beautiful contrast to the vivid purple flowers.

• Shape: Narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are soft to the touch and emit a strong, fragrant aroma when brushed or crushed.

• Size: Leaves are about 1-2 inches long, forming dense mounds of aromatic foliage.

• Color: Vibrant, deep purple-blue flowers form on tall spikes above the silvery-green foliage.

• Bloom Time: Blooms begin in late spring and continue through mid-summer. With proper care, a second bloom may occur in late summer.

• Size of Blooms: Flower spikes can reach up to 4 inches long, providing an eye-catching display.

• Best Time to Plant: Plant in early spring or fall to allow the plant to establish roots in moderate temperatures.

Planting Instructions:

• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, sandy or loamy soil with a slightly alkaline to neutral pH (6.7-7.3). Amend heavy clay soils with compost or sand to improve drainage.

• Spacing: Space plants 12-18 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation and mature growth.

• Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the crown is level with the soil surface.

• Pruning Needs: Prune back by one-third after the first bloom in late summer to encourage a second flowering and maintain its shape. Perform a more severe prune in early spring to remove winter damage and encourage healthy, dense growth.

• Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers to promote additional blooming and maintain a tidy appearance.

• Watering Frequency: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system. Once established, lavender is drought-tolerant and only requires occasional watering during dry periods.

• Drought Tolerance: Highly drought-tolerant once established, making it ideal for dry, Mediterranean-like climates.

Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day) for optimal flower production and foliage color.

• Tolerates: Light shade, but growth and bloom production may be reduced.

• When to Harvest: Harvest flowers just as the buds begin to open for the most intense fragrance and color. Cut stems early in the morning, after the dew has dried but before the heat of the day.

• How to Harvest: Use sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut the flower stems. Bundle small bunches together and hang them upside down in a cool, dry, dark place to dry for later use in sachets, potpourri, or crafts.

• When to Fertilize: Lavender is a light feeder and typically does not require heavy fertilization. Apply a light layer of compost or a low-nitrogen, slow-release fertilizer in early spring if the plant seems weak or lacks blooms.

• Type of Fertilizer: Use a balanced, organic fertilizer with a low nitrogen ratio (such as a 5-10-10 formula) to avoid overly lush growth.

• Mulching: Apply a thin layer of gravel or coarse mulch around the base to help retain moisture and prevent weed growth while maintaining good drainage.

• Pests: Generally pest-free, though aphids or root rot can occur if the soil is too wet. Ensure good drainage to avoid these issues.

• Winter Care: In colder climates (USDA Zones 5-6), apply a light mulch of straw or leaves over the base of the plant in winter to protect roots from freezing temperatures.

Lavandula angustifolia 'Hidcote' is pollinated by bees, butterflies, and other insects, making it a valuable addition to pollinator-friendly gardens. Its long blooming season supports pollinators throughout the summer.

– Salvia nemorosa – upright spikes of violet or blue flowers that echo lavender’s tones

– Echinacea purpurea (Coneflower) – contrasting form and color; attracts pollinators

– Nepeta faassenii (Catmint) – soft mounding form, continuous blooms, and similar drought tolerance

– Coreopsis – long-blooming, bright yellow flowers create a vibrant contrast

– Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) – adds bold, warm colors and thrives in dry soils

– Achillea millefolium (Yarrow) – flat-topped blooms and feathery foliage pair well in cottage or xeric gardens

– Thymus (Thyme) – ground-hugging herb that complements lavender’s form and scent

– Santolina chamaecyparissus (Lavender Cotton) – silver foliage and yellow button flowers for texture contrast

– Artemisia – soft, silvery foliage enhances lavender’s color and form in dry garden settings