Hidcote Blue Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia ‘Hidcote’) is a compact English lavender variety prized for its deep bluish-purple flower spikes, aromatic foliage, and refined mounded shape. Extremely drought tolerant once established, it thrives in sunny, dry locations and adds elegant structure to borders, cottage gardens, and pathway edges. Its long summer bloom period draws bees and butterflies, making it a staple for pollinator landscapes and ornamental herb gardens.
Features
- Deep bluish-purple flower spikes on compact mounded plants.
- Highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
- Aromatic, silver-green foliage adds texture year-round.
- Ideal for borders, rock gardens, pathways, and cottage landscapes.
- Excellent drought tolerance in sunny, well-drained soils.
- Non-GMO Lavandula angustifolia ‘Hidcote’ variety.
Specifications
- Common Name: Hidcote Blue Lavender, English Lavender
- Scientific Name: Lavandula angustifolia ‘Hidcote’
- Plant Type: Perennial flowering herb
- USDA Zones: 5–9
- Bloom Color: Deep purple-blue flower spikes
- Foliage: Silver-green, narrow aromatic leaves
- Height: 12–24 inches
- Spread: 12–18 inches, compact mounded habit
- Growth Rate: Slow to moderate
- Heirloom: Yes
- GMO Status: Non-GMO
- Organic: Not certified organic
- Light Requirements: Full sun
- Soil Preference: Well-drained, sandy or rocky soil
- Water Needs: Low once established
- Drought Tolerance: High
- Pollinator Friendly: Yes (bees, butterflies)
- Deer & Rabbit Resistance: High
- Maintenance Level: Low
- Plant Spacing: 12–18 inches
- Seed Viability: 1–2 years; sow fresh when possible
Planting Guide
- Cold stratify seeds for 4–6 weeks (refrigerate in moist medium).
- Sow indoors 8–10 weeks before last frost or outdoors in fall.
- Gently press seeds onto the soil surface; lightly cover (1/8 inch).
- Keep soil lightly moist until germination (14–35 days).
- Provide bright light and good ventilation for seedlings.
- Transplant outdoors after frost into dry, well-drained soil.
- Choose full sun for compact plants and richest bloom color.
- Avoid overwatering; allow soil to dry slightly between watering.
- Prune lightly after blooms fade to maintain shape.