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Can You Grow Lavender in California?

US · USDA Zone 9b · zones 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b

Grow indoors

Lavender grows in containers with gritty well-drained potting mix — bring indoors in cold zones.

Plant zones

5a–8b

California last frost

mid-January

California first frost

late December

Days to harvest

Perennial

About Lavender

Lavender needs excellent drainage above all — it will rot in wet heavy soil even in a suitable zone.

Plant in the sandiest most well-drained soil you have. Raised beds or containers work well. Cut back by half after flowering. English lavender (L. angustifolia) is the hardiest for cold zones.

Full lavender growing guide →

Gardening in California

California spans more climate zones than any other state. Coastal regions are mild year-round; the Central Valley is hot and productive; mountains are cold; deserts are extreme.

See what grows well in California →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Lavender in California?

Lavender grows in containers with gritty well-drained potting mix — bring indoors in cold zones.

What zone is California?

California spans USDA Zone 9b (5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b).

When do you plant Lavenders in California?

See the planting guide for Lavender — timing depends on your exact frost date.