When it comes to cold-hardy lavender, two varieties stand out – ‘Hidcote’ and ‘Munstead’. These cultivars are known for their ability to withstand harsh winter conditions and are less likely to be killed back to the ground in zone 5.
I have personally grown both ‘Hidcote’ and ‘Munstead’ lavenders in my garden, and they have proven to be exceptionally resilient in colder climates. These varieties originate from the English lavender species, Lavandula angustifolia, which is known for its cold hardiness compared to other lavender species.
‘Hidcote’ lavender, named after Hidcote Manor Garden in England, is a compact and bushy cultivar that reaches a height of around 2 feet. Its deep purple flowers and silver-gray foliage create a striking contrast in the garden. I have found that ‘Hidcote’ has a strong, sweet fragrance and is a favorite among bees and butterflies. Even during harsh winters, ‘Hidcote’ has managed to survive and bounce back in the spring without any major damage.
‘Munstead’ lavender, named after Munstead Wood, the garden of renowned English gardener Gertrude Jekyll, is another cold-hardy variety. It has a similar compact habit and reaches a similar height as ‘Hidcote’. The flowers of ‘Munstead’ are a lighter shade of purple and also emit a lovely fragrance. I have noticed that ‘Munstead’ tends to have a slightly stronger scent compared to ‘Hidcote’. Like ‘Hidcote’, ‘Munstead’ has proven its resilience in my garden, surviving harsh winters without significant damage.
Both ‘Hidcote’ and ‘Munstead’ lavenders prefer full sun and well-draining soil. It is important to avoid excessive moisture during the winter months, as lavender plants are susceptible to root rot in wet conditions. To protect these cold-hardy varieties during the winter, I recommend applying a layer of mulch around the base of the plants to insulate the roots and prevent temperature fluctuations.
In addition to their cold-hardiness, ‘Hidcote’ and ‘Munstead’ lavenders are also prized for their culinary and aromatic properties. The flowers and foliage can be used to add flavor and fragrance to various dishes, teas, potpourris, and homemade beauty products.
If you are looking for cold-hardy lavender varieties for zone 5, ‘Hidcote’ and ‘Munstead’ are excellent choices. Their ability to withstand harsh winter conditions, coupled with their beautiful flowers and delightful fragrance, make them popular options for gardeners in colder climates. Whether you plan to use lavender for its ornamental, culinary, or aromatic purposes, these cultivars are sure to bring beauty and joy to your garden.
