Native to New Zealand along with being the largest plant genus in that state, the Hebe plant has over 90 different species and is uniquely distinctive for it’s bottle brush flower and symmetrical neatly patterned foliage.
Being named after the goddess of youth is fitting for this plant given that it is a beautiful evergreen shrub that is commonly adorned for being so “tidy and neat”. Hebe plants typically grow in 3×3 and 4×4 medium sized bushes with a variety of different colors and can be a wonderful long lasting ornamental for your garden border plants.
There are two foliage groups which Hebe plants fall under. The first group has foliage that has a more oval shaped leaves whereas the second has flatter and more compressed leaves. Hebe plants that have the flat and compressed foliage are more cold hardy relative to oval shaped leaves. Here are some popular varieties that may brighten up your border or patio!
Hebe Wild Romance– A deer resistant shrub that can reach 30 inches and is hardy in zones 8-10, the Hebe “Wild Romance” variety has stunning compact blue-purple flowers that truly radiate a romantic essence. It is a great plant to consider growing year round.
Hebe Heartbreaker- The “heartbreaker” Hebe is one of the most well-known varieties given that it is truly a year round beauty that requires little maintenance. It’s lovely foliage has green centers and white edges that turn a fluorescent pink during lower temperatures during November up until springtime.
Hebe James Stirling- Also known as Hebe ochracea, the James Stirling Hebe was named after superintendent of the Government Gardens in native New Zealand and was awarded the Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Harticultural Society in 1993. It’s foliage is a lovely bronze green that grows as a low spreading dwarf shrub only reaching up to 18 inches tall.
Hebe Frozen Flame– Similar to the “Wild Romance”, this “Frozen Flame” variety is also hardy in zones 8-10 and can grow up to 30 inches as well. However, its flowers are a bright blue blue along with having greyish green leaves with a white edge that turn pinkish during winter and summer times.
Hebe Green Globe- Like the James Stirling variety, the Hebe Green Globe plant grows is also a dwarf shrub. It’s vivid green foliage is a neat well rounded bush composed of waxy evergreen leaves that produce white flowers come summer time.It is a small gem among hebes.
Hebe Pagei- Also known as Hebe pinguifolia. This evergreen shrub is distinct for its silvery-grey leaves and white flowers that form as spikes in late April to early June. We recommend this variety as a beautiful patio or border front plant.
Tips on growing a Hebe Plant
Try growing your Hebe plants in the spring to allow them time to settle in before the cold season. For the best knowledge of which varieties to grow in your area, be sure to should visit your local nursery or get in contact with your agricultural department for the best Hebe varieties to grow in your area.
Hebe’s are generally coastal plants and do better in moderated temperatures and poorly in heat fluctuating areas. Also, be wary if you’re growing your plants around deer because they do attract them. Garden fencing can be used to protect your plants from deers and other animals.
For your soil, mixing in compost and ensuring good drainage is a huge essential as over-watering is a common problem with these plants. A full sun location is highly recommended for the best growth but part shade is tolerable for Hebes as well.
Hebe Plant Care
Although it is not necessary for most Hebe varieties, giving them some plant food and fertilizer during late winter can give extra nutrition and promote a healthier bloom. Also, watering your plants with about an inch or two of water a week should be sufficient amount to keep them healthy. The main focus for Hebe plant maintenance however, is on pruning!
Prune them after flowing has begun to give even more energy to their growing and to maintain a nice compact plant shape. Prune off only the old flowers that are starting to turn yellow or brown. As far pests and diseases go, you won’t have to worry about many issues other than mildew if you’re in a humid area.
We hope this plant brightens up your borders and garden beds! Contact us with any questions you may have or give us feedback on your own experiences with the Hebe plant. We love hearing from our fellow gardeners and readers!