Few plants capture the imagination quite like lavender. With its soft purple blooms, calming scent, and impressive adaptability, it’s no wonder this herb has earned a devoted following among gardeners, cooks, and wellness enthusiasts alike.
Lavender isn’t just beautiful—it’s also surprisingly hardy. For gardeners in Zones 5b–6a, including much of the Chicagoland area, it’s possible to grow this Mediterranean native successfully, even in heavy clay soils. Whether you're planting it along borders, tucking it into containers, shaping it into charming topiaries, or drying it for your next DIY spa night, lavender’s versatility makes it a must-have in any garden. Shop book.
Shop our Lavender Market.
Lavender Varieties To Know
Perennial Lavender (Cold Hardy)
If you're looking for lavender that comes back year after year in northern climates, start with cold-hardy varieties:
English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia): Tried and true for colder climates, English lavenders like ‘Hidcote’ and ‘Munstead’ feature compact growth, rich fragrance, and strong flower color. They’re also excellent for culinary use.
Lavandin (Lavandula x intermedia): A hybrid of English and Portuguese lavender, Lavandin varieties such as ‘Annet’ are larger with longer flower spikes and a more intense aroma. Slightly less cold-hardy, they may need extra winter protection in exposed spots.
Lavender, Annet
Lavender, Sweet Romance
Annual Lavender (Warm Climate Types)
In cooler regions, some lavender types are best grown as annuals:
Spanish Lavender (Lavandula stoechas): Known for its striking “rabbit ear” bracts, it’s more showy than hardy. A beautiful seasonal choice for containers and borders.
French Lavender (Lavandula dentata): With finely toothed leaves and heat-loving nature, French lavender is another great annual choice for decorative flair.
Lavender
Herb, Lavender French
Indoor Lavender Topiaries
Indoor topiaries add structure and fragrance to your home. Choose compact, well-pruned plants like Goodwin Creek or French lavender topiaries. Place them in bright, sunny windows, and rotate them regularly to encourage even growth. Trim lightly to maintain shape and remove spent blooms.
How to Grow Lavender — In Ground & In Containers
Soil & Location
Lavender prefers well-draining, alkaline to neutral soils. In clay-heavy areas like much of the Midwest, amend soil with sand or soil conditioner to improve drainage. Raised beds and sloped sites are ideal. Avoid planting in low-lying areas where water collects—lavender roots are susceptible to rot in soggy conditions.
Watering & Light
Lavender loves the sun. Choose a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Once established, lavender is drought-tolerant and thrives in dry conditions—perfect for xeriscaping. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry out between waterings.
Pruning & Maintenance
Avoid pruning lavender in the fall—it can cause winter dieback. Instead, wait until early spring when new growth appears, then trim back by about one-third. To enjoy the strongest fragrance and best drying results, harvest flower spikes just before full bloom. Some varieties benefit from deadheading to encourage additional flowering.
Container Growing Tips
Lavender grows beautifully in containers, making it ideal for patios and porches. Use terra cotta pots with excellent drainage and a light, sandy potting mix. Be sure to bring containers indoors for the winter, placing them in a cool, bright location like a sunroom or enclosed porch.
Lavender’s Culinary & Aromatherapy Uses
In the Kitchen
English lavender (L. angustifolia) is your go-to for culinary uses due to its low camphor content. Add a unique floral twist to:
Lavender Lemonade or Herbal Tea - Try steeping dried lavender with tea blends like Daily Beauty for a calming experience.
Baked Goods - Add a hint of lavender to shortbread or muffins. Or skip the baking and enjoy lavender shortbread ready-made.
Infusions - Make your own lavender sugar or drizzle lavender-infused honey over yogurt or toast.
Remember, a little goes a long way—start with small amounts to avoid overpowering the dish.
Wellness & DIY
Lavender is a staple in natural wellness:
Relaxation: Use dried buds in sachets, bath salts, or potpourri like these French lavender wraps.
Aromatherapy: A few drops of lavender essential oil on your pillow or in a diffuser can promote restful sleep and reduce stress.
Home Spa Vibes: Treat yourself with lavender-scented candles, linen sprays, or luxurious lotions for a calming daily ritual.
Lavender is more than just a pretty face. It’s fragrant, functional, and surprisingly resilient—perfect for Northern gardens and container lovers alike. With the right soil, plenty of sunshine, and a little pruning know-how, you can enjoy lavender’s many benefits both inside and outside your home.
From fragrant garden beds to cozy tea mugs, lavender brings a little luxury and peace wherever it grows.
Shop our Lavender Market.
THIS WEEKEND (7/11-7/13) Join us for a weekend of lavender delights and summer deals. Enjoy inspired shopping, garden strolls, a lavender demo, and Saturday’s Signature Lavender Arrangement Workshop—plus up to $10 off select lavender plants.