Hidcote Lavender

Size

Hidcote Lavender, or Lavandula angustifolia 'Hidcote' as it is botanically named, is considered one of the best lavenders to grow. With its wonderfully fragrant, purple flowers that tower above its green-gray, needle-like foliage, it is a trusted perennial for any sunny spot. Hidcote Lavender remains low and tends to reach a maximum of 18 inches tall. Loved by pollinators, it will attract all sorts of wildlife into the garden. Hidcote Lavender is tough and tolerant of hot and dry spells when established. It blooms from early summer onwards and can be grown in zones 5 to 8. Although loved by many insects, it is thankfully resistant to deer and rabbits, which makes it ideal for both urban and rural gardens. It is native to the Mediterranean and can be grown individually or in groups. A low-maintenance perennial plant, its flowers are used for cut flowers, drying, crafts and even culinary uses. Hidcote Lavender Care To promote the best blooms and fragrance, grow Hidcote Lavender in full sun, in free-draining soil. Although it is drought tolerant when established, it does require regular watering for the first season at least. It can cope with almost any soil as long as it is well drained; if there is anything lavenders do not like, it is a waterlogged soil. Hidcote Lavender does well even on poor soils and does not need any supplementary fertilizer; in fact, providing too many nutrients can inhibit flower production. If they are not given an annual prune, lavenders can become leggy and woody. To prevent this, Hidcote Lavender can be pruned by removing up to one-third of its green growth in the fall. However, avoid cutting back into old wood as it may not regrow. Any container-grown plants should be moved to a protected area to overwinter. Hidcote Lavender Spacing Hidcote Lavender can reach a maximum size of 15-18 inches high by 24-36 inches wide. If planting this lavender out in drifts or as a low informal hedge, space each plant 18-36 inches apart depending on the desired result.