Hebe 'Paula'
Family: Scrophulariaceae
Pronounced: HEE-bee
Quick Jumps
Growing Guide
Rainy Side Notes
GROWING GUIDE
Origin:
Garden.
Plant Group:
Evergreen shrub.
Hardiness:
Sunset zones: 5, 6, 14-24.
USDA zones: 8-10.
Mature size:
Height: 2.5 ft (75 cm).
Width: 3 ft (90 cm).
Flowering period:
Late summer to early fall bloom.
Flowering attributes:
Axillary spikes of 3 to 4-inch long purple flowers.
Leaf attributes:
Glossy, evergreen leaves are 3 to 3 ½-inches long. New foliage is flushed red and turns green as it matures.
Growth habit:
Evergreen clumper.
Light:
Full sun.
Soil:
Moist, fertile, well-drained soil.
Propagation Methods:
Root semi-ripe cuttings using bottom heat in late summer or early fall.
Pruning Methods:
Little to no pruning necessary. If plant becomes ragged looking, cut back hard to rejuvenate foliage.
Pests and Diseases:
Aphids, leaf spot, root rot and powdery mildew may be problems.
Rainy Side Notes
This hebes foliage looks good year round, making it a first-rate plant. In spring new growth shows tints of red in the leaves. Fantastic spikes of purple flowers begin in late summer and continue into the fall. Hebes are choice plants for the seashore garden and makes a fine container plant.
I have mine paired with Phormium tenax and Fuchsia magellanica 'Aurea'. The threesome is outstanding in the garden.
Photographed in author's garden.
Gardening for the Homebrewer: Grow and Process Plants for Making Beer, Wine, Gruit, Cider, Perry, and More
By co-authors Debbie Teashon (Rainy Side Gardeners) and Wendy Tweton