Evergreen. 18 in. Sun.
'Hidcote Blue' is a classic semi-dwarf English lavender, growing to 18 inches in flower. Both corolla and calyx are a deep violet blue, which looks stunning against the gray-green foliage. This is an excellent selection for drying, because the flowers dry so dark. For jar pot pourri, or anywhere you will see the dried flowers, this is a good choice. The fragrance is sweet, but very strong.
'Hidcote Blue' can get very floppy and rangy if not pruned back heavily after bloom. Prune back at least 50% to keep this plant looking tidy and to extend the lifespan. Keeping the root system dry is important, so amend the soil to improve drainage and plant on a small mound if possible, especially when planting in mixed beds that will get watered often. This is a great choice in rose gardens. It can also be planted in containers, again if maintained on the dry side.
'Hidcote Blue' is our favorite for cooking. Its natural sweetness lends itself to desserts and lighter fare such as fish or fruit salads. If you use this one for Lavender Jelly, the flowers (fresh or dried!) will turn the jelly a rosy pink! Simmered in water and used for the base of lotions or sprays, you can also obtain a pink color and a sweeter 'cooler' fragrance than many of the other lavenders.
Our plants are always grown from cuttings, so you know you will be getting a true Hidcote lavender. Plants from seeds are often available, but due to genetic variability plant size, flower size and color and fragrance will vary widely!