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Lavender Orpington chicken breed portrait

Illustration (AI rendered)

Lavender Orpington

Also known as: Self Blue Orpington

Soft silver-lavender variety of the Orpington.

🐣 Beginner friendly❄ Cold hardy🪺 Goes broody
Egg color
brown
Eggs / year
200
Egg size
large
Purpose
dual
Class
English
Size
large
Hen weight
8 lbs
Rooster weight
10 lbs
Temperament
calm, gentle, cuddly
Noise level
quiet
Origin
England
Lifespan
8-10 yrs

About the Lavender Orpington

The Lavender Orpington features a soft silver-lavender plumage that is both striking and silky. They are known for their friendly and docile temperament, making them ideal for family farms and backyard coops. Their robust build and gentle nature make them excellent foragers and social birds, often adapting well to confinement. This breed is distinctive not only for its color but also for its ability to be both a reliable layer and a good meat bird.

History

The Lavender Orpington is a color variant of the Orpington breed developed in England in the late 19th century. The breed was created by crossing Black Orpingtons with other breeds to produce the unique lavender color. Over time, the Lavender Orpington gained popularity due to its aesthetic appeal and dual-purpose capabilities, spreading to various countries, especially among backyard keepers.

Care tips

Lavender Orpingtons are hardy birds that adapt well to different climates, though they prefer a sheltered area to stay cool in hot weather. They can be somewhat broody, making them good candidates for hatching eggs if you're looking to expand your flock. Provide ample space for them to forage, as they enjoy scratching and pecking around. Additionally, ensure a balanced diet to maintain their health and vibrant plumage.

Color varieties

lavender

Fun facts

  • Lavender Orpingtons are known for their calm and friendly demeanor.
  • They lay medium-sized brown eggs, typically 180-200 eggs per year.
  • This breed's lavender color is a result of a dilution gene in their genetics.
  • Lavender Orpingtons often bond well with other breeds, promoting flock harmony.
Reviewed by the ChickenCoops.ai Editorial Team
Content is written and reviewed by our team of backyard chicken keepers, veterinary technicians, and community moderators. Aggregate data pulls nightly from our own platform. Last reviewed July 13, 2026.