Hebe Common name: Veronica	Indicates sun requirement      Full sun      Half sun      Semi-shade      Shade   Indicates Water requirement         High water requirement.     Water every 1-2 days.          Medium water requirement.     Water every 3-7 days.          Low water requirement.     Water every 7-14 days.
Description There are over 100 species of Hebe. They are evergreen shrubs and mostly native to New Zealand; although some are also found in Australia and even South America. They grow in a wide range of habitats from coastal to alpine regions and range from 30cm (12in) high ground huggers to small/medium shrubs up to 2m (7ft). Many hybrids are available. Depending on the species, foliage and flowers differ. Some have large oval to lance-shaped leaves, others have small pinnate ones. The flowers can be spikes or clusters of small tubular blooms, ranging in colour from white through to purple. Useful in rockeries, small hedging plants, or container growing. A number of species are salt tolerant and drought resistant.
Growing Most hebes are best suited to temperate to warm climates. In warm climates they grow equally well in sun or shade; in cooler climates they prefer sun. They like moist but well-drained soil but will tolerate a wide range of soil conditions, from clay through to sand. The small-leafed (‘whipcord’) species dislike heat and humidity. Prune after flowering to keep the plant bushy and compact, and to promote the next seasons flowers. Can be trimmed to form small hedges. Fertilise with All Purpose Fertiliser, as it has all the trace elements in it. A liquid feed once a month will also benefit the health of the foliage. Many of the whipcord hebes are mountain plants and tricky to grow at low altitudes. Propagate cultivars from cuttings in late summer; otherwise by seed. Downey mildew or leaf spot can be a problem in humid areas. If found, spray bush with a fungicide.