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Lavender grows well in Colorado.
It’s one of those plants that actually thrives in our climate.
If you’ve been asking yourself, “does lavender grow well in Colorado,” the short answer is a big, fragrant yes.
This Mediterranean herb loves the same things Colorado offers, like bright sun, cool nights, and rocky, well-drained soil.
In this post, we’ll look at why lavender grows well in Colorado, which varieties do best, and how to care for it so it flourishes.
Let’s dig in.
Why Lavender Grows Well in Colorado
Lavender grows well in Colorado for several reasons, and once you understand them, it’s easy to see why this plant feels right at home here.
1. Colorado’s Climate Mimics the Mediterranean
Lavender is native to the rocky, sun-drenched hills of the Mediterranean.
That means it’s built for hot, dry summers and mild, cool winters.
Colorado’s climate, especially along the Front Range and in the western valleys, mirrors those conditions surprisingly well.
Our low humidity and abundant sunshine are exactly what lavender craves.
2. Excellent Drainage in Many Colorado Soils
Lavender hates soggy roots.
If its roots sit in water, the plant will rot quickly.
Many parts of Colorado have sandy, gravelly, or rocky soil that drains fast.
That’s perfect for lavender because it lets water pass through instead of pooling around the roots.
3. Plenty of Sunlight
Lavender needs at least six to eight hours of direct sun each day.
Colorado is famous for its 300 days of sunshine, so finding a bright spot is rarely a problem.
That intense sunlight also helps lavender produce more of those beautiful, aromatic flowers.
4. Cool Nights Help Flower Production
Our cool Colorado nights are another hidden benefit.
Lavender appreciates a drop in temperature after a hot day.
This temperature swing encourages strong blooming and helps the plant stay healthy through the summer.
Which Lavender Varieties Grow Best in Colorado
Not all lavender is the same, so choosing the right variety matters if you want it to grow well in Colorado.
1. English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
English lavender is the most cold-hardy type and grows well in most of Colorado.
It handles our winters better than other varieties and produces highly fragrant flowers.
Popular choices include ‘Hidcote’ and ‘Munstead.’
2. Spanish Lavender (Lavandula stoechas)
Spanish lavender is less cold-hardy and may struggle in colder parts of the state.
It grows well in warmer Colorado areas like Grand Junction and parts of the Western Slope.
Its distinctive “rabbit ear” blooms are a fun addition to any garden.
3. French Lavender (Lavandula dentata)
French lavender is the least winter-hardy of the common types.
In Colorado, it’s best grown in containers that you can move indoors during winter.
Still, with a little extra care, French lavender can grow well in Colorado’s warmer microclimates.
4. Lavandins (Lavandula x intermedia)
Lavandins are a hybrid between English and Portuguese lavender.
They grow well in Colorado and are often used for commercial lavender fields.
They’re larger plants with long stems, perfect for bouquets and drying.
How to Care for Lavender in Colorado
Even though lavender grows well in Colorado, a little care goes a long way.
1. Plant in Full Sun
Choose the sunniest spot in your yard.
Lavender will grow well in Colorado when it gets uninterrupted sun all day.
Avoid areas that get shaded by trees or buildings in the afternoon.
2. Ensure Good Drainage
If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with sand or gravel before planting.
Better yet, plant lavender on a slight slope or in a raised bed.
You can also mix in compost to improve soil structure, but don’t overdo it.
Lavender prefers lean soil over rich, fertile ground.
3. Water Sparingly
Once established, lavender is drought-tolerant and needs very little water.
In Colorado, water deeply but infrequently, letting the soil dry out between waterings.
Overwatering is the number one reason lavender fails here.
4. Prune Regularly
Prune lavender in early spring to remove dead growth and shape the plant.
After blooming, trim back the flower stems to encourage more growth.
Just avoid cutting into the woody part of the plant, as it may not regrow.
5. Mulch with Gravel
Instead of wood mulch, use gravel or crushed rock around your lavender.
This reflects heat, keeps the soil dry, and helps lavender grow well in Colorado’s climate.
6. Winter Protection
In colder parts of Colorado, a little winter protection helps.
Avoid heavy mulching around the crown, which can trap moisture and cause rot.
Instead, plant cold-hardy varieties and ensure good drainage going into winter.
So, Does Lavender Grow Well in Colorado?
Lavender grows well in Colorado.
With plenty of sun, sharp drainage, and the right variety, it can thrive from the plains to the foothills.
Whether you’re growing English lavender in a raised bed or lavandins on a sunny slope, Colorado offers nearly ideal conditions.
So go ahead and plant some lavender this season, and enjoy the color, scent, and pollinator-friendly blooms it brings.
Happy gardening.