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Lavandula angustifolia 'Hidcote'
Hidcote Lavender
Garden selection; species {Lavandula angustifolia} is native to the western Mediterranean — France, Spain, Italy
Overview
Lavandula angustifolia 'Hidcote' is the most famous English lavender cultivar in the Lamiaceae family — a widely planted cultivar of any plant worldwide, growing 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) tall and 18-24 inches (45-60 cm) wide. Named after Hidcote Manor Garden in the Cotswolds, England, where it originated. Deep violet-purple dense flower spikes on long stems appear in June and July — the darkest flower color among common English lavenders. Silver-gray narrow aromatic evergreen leaves form a compact mound year-round. The iconic lavender fragrance — calming, clean, herbaceous — carries strongly compared to most other cultivars. 'Hidcote' has set the standard for English lavender since the mid-20th century. The compact mound responds to formal clipping for hedging and edging. Lean, alkaline, sharply drained soil in full sun is essential — lavender rots in wet, acidic, or rich conditions. Winter drainage is especially important in zones 5-6. Pruning in early spring cuts back to the point where green growth emerges — old, brown wood does not regrow. A second light shearing after bloom tidies the shape. Culinary herb — flowers and leaves used in cooking, baking, and beverages. Deer avoid the strongly aromatic foliage.
Native Range
The species Lavandula angustifolia is native to the western Mediterranean — France, Spain, and Italy. 'Hidcote' originated at Hidcote Manor Garden, Cotswolds, England.Suggested Uses
Used as a fragrant evergreen hedge, border edging, in herb gardens, and containers of 5 gallons (19 liters) or more. The most famous lavender worldwide. Culinary, sachets, dried arrangements. The fragrance is the primary attraction. Pairs with roses — the iconic English garden combination.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height1' - 1'6"
Width/Spread1'6" - 2'
Reaches mature size in approximately 3 years
Bloom Information
Flowering in June and July, approximately 4 weeks. Deep violet-purple dense spikes. The silver-gray mound is the year-round display.Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
Deep violet-purple, in dense terminal spikes on long stemsFoliage Description
Silver-gray, narrow, aromatic, evergreenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-12 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Plant in full sun. Lean, sharply drained, alkaline soil. Heavy fertilising is avoided. Watering is sparing. Pruning in early spring cuts to the point where green growth emerges — old brown wood does not regrow. Shearing after bloom maintains shape. Winter drainage is critical in cold zones. Culinary herb.Pruning
Pruning in early spring cuts to the point where green growth emerges — old brown wood does not regrow. A second shearing after bloom maintains shape. These two annual pruning events are essential for a long-lived, compact lavender.Pruning Schedule
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
early springsummer
Maintenance Level
lowContainer Growing
✓ Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 5 gallons