Hebes or veronicas are plants native mainly to New Zealand and widely used in gardening for their ornamental qualities, so much so that in the United Kingdom there is an association dedicated to their dissemination and care. In general terms, it can be said that large-leaved varieties are the most delicate while small-leaved ones are more resistant and most suitable for the Mediterranean climate.
In this post we will talk about Hebe ‘Inspiration’, a hybrid between H. speciosa and H. diosmifolia, a very interesting cultivar more resistant to direct sunlight in warm climates, to water scarcity and to cold, it is also resistant to a certain salinity and sea breeze.
Hebe ‘Inspiration’ is a perennial shrub, for warm climates, it has a compact habit and at full development reaches dimensions of about 80 cm, both in height and width.
Flowering begins in April and ends in late June. Its purple flowers are arranged in a raceme-shaped inflorescence and are very attractive to butterflies.
The foliage sits on the slightly arched branches, which stand out for their reddish coloration and contrast with the bright green leaves that are small, lanceolate and slightly leathery.
This plant needs well-drained soils with a certain fertility. It is a fairly simple plant to grow and with low maintenance requirements. It likes to grow in full sun, is tolerant of water scarcity, but prefers periodic watering and has a certain resistance to low temperatures, tolerating temperatures down to -10ºC.
If you want to maintain a very formal habit, since it is a plant that tolerates topiary very well, it can be pruned at the beginning of winter and at the end of the flowering season. But, if a more natural habit is desired, only maintenance pruning will be carried out in late summer.
It is resistant to pests and diseases if grown under the correct conditions, since soils with excessive moisture or poor drainage can cause some fungal diseases.
Due to its characteristics, it is a very versatile plant that can be used as a border in flowerbeds, in masses and in rock gardens near the sea. It is also suitable for growing in pots.
At Sala Graupera we can also find other hebe cultivars with similar characteristics such as Hebe ‘Wiri Charm’ or Hebe ‘Wiri Image’.
Images: dinsan.com.au / cranethie.wordpress.com / theplantstore.co.nz