Lavender is a favorite in backyard gardens for its calming fragrance, soft purple blooms, and low-maintenance nature. Known for thriving in sunny, well-drained areas, lavender is both beautiful and practical, often used for borders, pathways, and container gardens.
Many varieties are drought-tolerant and attract pollinators while naturally repelling pests. From classic English types to heat-loving hybrids, these are the most popular varieties of lavender to grow in your backyard.
1. English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
English lavender is the most popular and widely grown lavender variety in home gardens. It’s known for its sweet fragrance, compact growth, and excellent cold hardiness. This variety blooms in early to mid-summer and is commonly used for dried flowers, sachets, and culinary purposes. English lavender thrives in full sun and well-drained soil and performs especially well in cooler climates.
2. French Lavender (Lavandula dentata)
French lavender is easily recognized by its toothed, gray-green leaves and tall flower spikes. It has a lighter fragrance than English lavender but blooms for a longer period in warm climates. This variety prefers mild winters and is often grown in containers so it can be protected from frost.
3. Spanish Lavender (Lavandula stoechas)
Spanish lavender is known for its distinctive flower heads topped with decorative “rabbit ear” petals. It blooms early and thrives in hot, dry conditions. While less cold-hardy than English lavender, it adds a bold, ornamental look to backyard gardens in warmer regions.
4. Hybrid Lavender (Lavandin – Lavandula × intermedia)
Hybrid lavender, also called lavandin, is a cross between English and Portuguese lavender. It grows larger than English lavender and produces long flower stems with a strong fragrance. This variety is commonly used for essential oils and is valued for its vigor and heat tolerance.
5. Hidcote Lavender
Hidcote lavender is a compact English lavender variety known for its deep purple flowers. It forms neat mounds and is ideal for borders, pathways, and formal garden designs. Hidcote is very fragrant and holds its color well when dried, making it a favorite for both landscaping and crafts.
6. Munstead Lavender
Munstead lavender is a compact English lavender variety that blooms slightly earlier than many others. It has a strong, pleasant fragrance and is very cold-hardy. This variety is ideal for small gardens, borders, and containers where space is limited.
7. Phenomenal Lavender
Phenomenal lavender is known for its exceptional heat and humidity tolerance compared to many other lavender types. It produces long flower spikes with a strong scent and resists common issues like root rot. This variety performs well in a wide range of climates and is a reliable choice for backyard gardeners.
8. Grosso Lavender
Grosso lavender is a popular lavandin variety grown primarily for its high oil content and intense fragrance. It produces tall flower stems and large blooms, making it excellent for harvesting and drying. This variety thrives in full sun and well-drained soil and is commonly used in commercial plantings.
9. Provence Lavender
Provence lavender is known for its long, elegant flower spikes and classic lavender scent. It grows larger than English lavender and works well in open garden beds and borders. This variety prefers warm climates and is often used in ornamental landscapes.
10. Royal Velvet Lavender
Royal Velvet lavender is an English lavender variety valued for its rich purple flowers and strong fragrance. It produces sturdy stems that hold up well in the garden and when cut. This variety is often chosen for dried arrangements and essential oil use.
11. Thumbelina Leigh Lavender
Thumbelina Leigh lavender is a compact English lavender variety with short stems and dense flower heads. It is ideal for containers, edging, and small garden spaces. Despite its size, it produces a strong fragrance and neat, rounded growth.
12. Miss Katherine Lavender
Miss Katherine lavender is known for its soft pink blooms, which are unique among lavender varieties. It offers a mild fragrance and adds a gentle pop of color to backyard gardens. This variety prefers full sun and well-drained soil and works well in mixed flower beds.
13. Anouk Lavender
Anouk lavender is a popular Spanish lavender variety with tall flower spikes and large decorative bracts. It blooms early and continues flowering in warm climates. This variety is often grown in containers and thrives in sunny, dry conditions.
14. Goodwin Creek Grey Lavender
Goodwin Creek Grey lavender is valued for its silvery foliage and strong fragrance. It is a fast-growing variety that performs well in warm climates. This lavender is often grown for its ornamental leaves as much as for its flowers.
15. Edelweiss Lavender
Edelweiss lavender produces creamy white flowers that stand out against its gray-green foliage. It has a lighter fragrance than purple varieties but offers a clean, elegant look. This variety works well in borders and gardens where softer tones are desired.
Jamie is the founder of The Backyard Pros. When he was 15 years old he started working at a garden centre helping people buy plants, gardening products, and lawn care products. He has real estate experience and he is a home owner. Jamie loves backyard projects, refinishing furniture, and enjoys sharing his knowledge online.