Hebe vernicosa (Varnished Hebe)

Compact, rounded, Hebe vernicosa (Varnished Hebe) is a small evergreen shrub with oval, glossy dark green leaves adorned with thin yellow margins. In late spring to early summer, racemes of small white or very pale blue flowers appear in the leaf axils. Providing color all year round, as well as form, texture, and contrast to its companion plants, Varnished Hebe is an excellent container subject and is also suitable for rock gardens. Its compact size makes it ideal for small gardens.

• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society
• Typically grows up to 2 ft. tall and wide (60 cm).
• Thrives in full sun or part shade in poor to moderately fertile, well-drained soils. Prefers moderately alkaline to neutral soils. Protect from cold, drying winds.
• Very versatile, this plant is perfect for banks and slopes, beds and borders, or containers. Well suited to city gardens, coastal gardens, rock gardens, or cottage gardens.
• Rarely affected by pests or diseases, it requires little maintenance. Keep an eye out for aphids and downy mildew.
• Needs little pruning. Prune lightly removing unsightly shoots as required in mid to late spring. This shrub blooms in summer and late fall on the previous or current year's growth.
• Propagate by seed sown in containers in a cold frame as soon as ripe. Cultivars will not come true. Root semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer or autumn with added bottom heat.
• Native to New Zealand.