Care of the shrub Hebe albicans or White hebe |
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The genus Hebe, family Plantaginaceae, includes 90 species of shrubs native to South America, New Zealand, Australia and some Pacific islands. Sometimes the genus Hebe is included in the genus Veronica. Some species are: Hebe albicans, Hebe stricta, Hebe salicifolia, Hebe speciosa, Hebe diosmifolia, Hebe acutiflora. Common name: White hebe. This species is native to New Zealand. They are compact and rounded shrubs that reach 60 cm (23.6") in height. They have light green or bluish oval leaves arranged in graceful symmetries along the stems. The flowers are small and white but appear profusely in spikes. They bloom in summer. They are used to form low hedges, in bushy margins, as isolated specimens and in pots for patios and terraces. They are highly recommended plants for Mediterranean coastal gardens. Hebe albicans can be grown in full sun or semi-shade exposure and protected from cold and dry wind. They can grow in poor but well-drained soil but prefer it to contain organic matter. Planting or transplanting is done in spring or autumn. Water moderately, waiting for the surface 5 cm of the substrate to dry. In winter reduce watering a lot. Fertilize in autumn with compost or manure and mineral fertilizer every 2 weeks in the flowering season. They do not need pruning. They are resistant plants to the usual pests and diseases. They propagate by division in spring or summer and from seeds planted in a seedbed under glass in early spring. |
Images of the shrub Hebe albicans or White hebe |
 Hebe albicans  Hebe albicans  Hebe albicans  Hebe albicans |