Lavender is associated with warm temperatures, but there are some hardy species and varieties that also survive our winters. We introduce them.
The genus lavender (lavender) belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae) and includes around 30 different species. the True lavender (Lavendula angustifolia) and the spike lavender (Lavendula latifolia) are of the greatest economic importance. Lavender originally comes from the Mediterranean region, which is why under our climatic conditions Not all varieties are hardy and can be brought indoors in the cold months at the latest have to. In order to avoid this measure, in this article we present a few varieties that you can easily overwinter outdoors under optimal conditions.
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- Hardy real lavender varieties
- Hardy spike lavender varieties
- Overwinter hardy lavender
True lavender is one of the most robust types of lavender. In its original habitat, it can also be found at higher altitudes and tolerates temperatures down to -15 °C for short periods. The spike lavender, on the other hand, is much more sensitive to cold temperatures and already has problems at temperatures below -5 °C. Below we present these two types in more detail.
Hardy real lavender varieties
With its blue-violet flowers, real lavender is one of the classic lavender species. For a short time it tolerates low temperatures, hibernation in a sheltered location and additional Depending on the region, however, care measures may still be necessary to ensure that the plant is not damaged by the cold season is coming. We can recommend the following hardy varieties of real lavender:
- ‘Hidcote Blue’: Proven variety from England; dark blue flowers with a tinge of purple; blooms from July to August; compact growth
- ‘Hidcote Pink’: Gorgeous pink flowers; suitable as a scented hedge; flowering time from July to August; strongly scented
- ‘Blue Cushion’: Blue-violet flowers; bushy growth; suitable as a bed border; blooms from July to August; Winter protection against frost is recommended; suitable for pot cultivation
- ‘Jamlitz’: Proven variety that is extremely hardy and robust; also suitable for rough situations; blue-violet flowers from June to July; becomes relatively high
- ‘Dwarf Blue’: Deep blue flowers with a tinge of purple; compact growth; suitable as a bed border and scented hedge; Flowering time from July to August, but possible until late autumn
- ‘Blue Ice’: Unique icy blue flowers from June to July; hardy variety; can be easily combined in color with darker varieties
- ‘Blue Scent’: Very hardy variety; purple-blue flowers from early June; good growth; rather undemanding
- ‘Ellagance Purple’: hardy variety; ideal for the garden; purple flowers from July to August; bushy growth
A comprehensive collection with various Varieties of True Lavender in all possible colors and shapes can be found in our special article.
Hardy spike lavender varieties
The broad-leaved lavender, as the spike lavender is also called, is frost-resistant to a limited extent, but cannot be classified as winter-hardy. In regions with a very changeable climate, the spike lavender should therefore definitely be brought indoors during the cold months. Cold stress is promoted above all by fluctuating weather conditions with a change between rain, snow, frost and thaw. But the spike lavender should not be exposed to a week-long permafrost. In order to simplify wintering, it is advisable to cultivate this species in a bucket or pot.
Would you like to know more about the different Types and Varieties of Lavender experience, you will find a summary here.
Overwinter hardy lavender
For a successful hibernation, however, not only the selection of the right species is decisive. Good care, the right location and suitable protective measures are also fundamental. For those species that can be overwintered outdoors, a layer of brushwood, leaves or mulch offers protection from precipitation and cold as well as from too much sunlight. On the other hand, it is best to bring potted plants indoors and place them in a dry, unheated room.
More tips and tricks for a successful Overwintering lavender can be found in our special article.