Hebe franciscana 'Blue Gem' — Bushy

Overview

Hebe franciscana 'Blue Gem' is a bushy shrub in the genus Veronica, part of the Plantaginaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Hebe franciscana 'Blue Gem' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders, rock gardens and containers. It is native to New Zealand.

About

Hebe franciscana 'Blue Gem' is a shrub cultivar within the genus Veronica, native to New Zealand and belonging to the Plantaginaceae family. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers a sheltered position with well-drained, moist soil. Hardy to UK zone H5, this plant is suitable for borders, rock gardens, and containers. Cultivation requires avoiding waterlogging, and light pruning after flowering helps maintain its shape. Propagation is typically by semi-ripe cuttings.

About the genus

Veronica is the largest genus in the flowering plant family Plantaginaceae, with about 500 species. It was formerly classified in the family Scrophulariaceae. Common names include speedwell, bird's eye, and gypsyweed.

Wikipedia contributors, "Veronica (plant)", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Veronica (plant)

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Veronica

Sunlight: full sun, partial shade
Soil type: well-drained
Soil pH: Neutral
Soil moisture: moist
Aspect: South-facing
Exposure: sheltered
UK hardiness: H5

Plant details

Hebe franciscana 'Blue Gem' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: shrub
Habit: Bushy
Foliage: Evergreen
Suggested uses: borders, rock gardens, containers
Native to: New Zealand

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Hebe franciscana 'Blue Gem'

Cultivation: Prefers well-drained soil and a sheltered position; avoid waterlogging.
Pruning: Light pruning after flowering to maintain shape.
Propagation: semi-ripe cuttings
Pest resistance: Aphids
Disease resistance: Downy mildew