This genus consists of about 100 species of evergreen shrubs primarily native to New Zealand, although a handful come from South America and Australia. Species grow in a wide range of habitats, from coastal areas to alpine regions, and may be shrubby, treelike, compact, or sprawling. These are 2 distinct foliage groups; those with oval to lance-shaped leaves, and those with smaller compressed leaves that give the plants the appearance of conifers; these are known as whipcord hebes. While some species are grown for their attractive light to dark green foliage, most are grown for their abundant spikes of small tubular-shaped flowers in shades of white, pink, deep purple, and crimson.
CULTIVATION
Most herbs prefer a sunny position and will tolerate a wide range of soil conditions. Several of the species perform well in coastal situations. They vary in terms of frost hardiness, with the bigger-leafed species being more frost sensitive than the smaller-leafed species. Prune after flowering to maintain a tidy compact shape. Propagation of the species is from seed or half-hardened cuttings in late summer.
Top Tip
Herbes benefit from an application of liquid fertilizer each month during the growing season. During winter they should only be watered periodically.
CULTIVATION
Most herbs prefer a sunny position and will tolerate a wide range of soil conditions. Several of the species perform well in coastal situations. They vary in terms of frost hardiness, with the bigger-leafed species being more frost sensitive than the smaller-leafed species. Prune after flowering to maintain a tidy compact shape. Propagation of the species is from seed or half-hardened cuttings in late summer.
Top Tip
Herbes benefit from an application of liquid fertilizer each month during the growing season. During winter they should only be watered periodically.
Snap of plant should be included
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