English lavender vs lavandin
Lavandin is a hybrid of English lavender and spike lavender, and 'Grosso' is the lavandin grown in the fields of Provence for its oil. It is about twice the size of English lavender, flowers a couple of weeks later on long stems, and has a stronger, sharper smell. English lavender has the sweeter scent, the one for cooking, and makes the lower, neater edging. Plant both and the lavender season lasts longer.
 English lavender 'Hidcote'Lavandula angustifolia 'Hidcote' |  Lavandin 'Grosso'Lavandula x intermedia 'Grosso' | |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 18 in tall, 18 in wide | 2½ ft tall, 3 ft wide |
| Plant | 18 in apart | 2½ ft apart |
| Zones | 5 to 8 | 5 to 8 |
| Light | Full sun | Full sun |
| Soil | Dry and sharply drained, lean fertility | Dry and sharply drained, lean fertility |
| Flowers | Late June to late July; purple | Early July to early August; purple |
| Leaves | Fine, evergreen | Fine, evergreen |
| Job in a bed | Edging | Specimen |
| Pets | Toxic (mild) | Toxic (mild) |
| Deer | Not listed as resistant | No record |
| Native | No | No |
| Spread | Low risk | Low risk |
Rows where they differ are marked. Flowering times are for zone 5.
Which to choose
- Choose English lavender 'Hidcote' for dry summers, a smaller space (18 in against 2½ ft) and more wildlife.
- Choose lavandin 'Grosso' for more height (2½ ft against 18 in).
Can they grow together?
Yes: they grow in the same conditions. What lavandin 'Grosso' brings beside English lavender 'Hidcote': in flower together for four weeks, from early July; a low mound at the foot of its spires; tall enough (2½ ft) to stand behind it. They share full sun and zones 5 to 8.
Read more: all about English lavender 'Hidcote', and all about lavandin 'Grosso', each with a bed the planner designed around it.