Hebe Midnight Sky Hebe Midnight Sky = 'Lowten' (PBR) (Garden Beauty Series)
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ABOUT
Hebe Midnight Sky 'Lowten' (PBR) (Garden Beauty Series) is an attractive evergreen shrub that boasts a dense and bushy appearance. Its foliage is a standout feature, with leaves that are a deep, almost black-purple hue that gives the plant its name "Midnight Sky." The leaves are generally small, glossy, and lance-shaped, which contributes to its lush, textured look. During the late spring to summer months, the plant produces striking flower spikes. These flowers are a brilliant contrast to the dark foliage, showcasing a bright purple or vibrant violet color. The blooms are small, tubular, and clustered tightly together on the spikes, with each individual bloom having a delicate, somewhat funnel-shaped appearance. The overall impression of Hebe Midnight Sky 'Lowten' is one of rich, contrasting colors and a compact, neat overall form that is pleasing to the eye, making it a popular choice for gardeners who want to add a touch of drama and sophistication to their landscape. It can serve as an excellent focal point in garden beds and borders, and its year-round appeal adds interest to the garden in all seasons.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Plantaginaceae
Synonyms
Midnight Sky Hebe, Shrubby Veronica
Common names
Hebe 'Lowten'
ToxicityTo humans
The Hebe (Midnight Sky) plant is generally considered to be non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects from ingesting or handling this plant. However, as with any plant, individual sensitivities and allergic reactions can occur, so it's always best to handle plants with care and avoid ingesting them unless they are known to be edible.
To pets
The Hebe (Midnight Sky) plant is also generally considered to be non-toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. There is no evidence to suggest that this plant would cause harm if ingested by pets. However, it is advisable to prevent pets from eating large quantities of any non-food plant, as this can potentially cause gastrointestinal upset or blockages.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Purple
Height
2 feet (0.6 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.6 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
New Zealand
Benefits
General Benefits- Compact size - Hebe Midnight Sky has a small, dense form, making it suitable for small gardens or as part of a mixed border.
- Ornamental leaves - The dark foliage provides year-round interest and a striking background for other plants.
- Low maintenance - This variety requires minimal pruning and care, making it ideal for busy gardeners.
- Drought tolerance - Once established, it can withstand periods of dry weather, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Attractive blooms - It produces violet-blue flowers in the summer, adding a splash of color to the garden.
- Hardiness - Capable of withstanding cold temperatures, it is suitable for a variety of climates.
- Wildlife friendly - The flowers attract bees and other pollinators, supporting local biodiversity.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Ink Production: The dark foliage of Hebe 'Midnight Sky' can be used to produce natural dyes or inks for artistic purposes, adding unique hues to fabrics or paper.
- Educational Tool: This plant can serve as a hands-on educational specimen for botany students to study plant structure, growth patterns, and the effects of different climates on vegetation.
- Culinary Garnish: Although not widely recognized for culinary use, the small leaves could potentially be used as an ornamental garnish for upscale dishes due to their unique coloring.
- Photography: Its striking dark foliage and contrasting flowers make it a compelling subject for professional and amateur photographers, especially in macro photography.
- Eco-friendly Confetti: Dried and crumbled leaves of Hebe 'Midnight Sky' can be used as a biodegradable confetti alternative in celebrations.
- Miniature Gardens: Suitable for creating fairy gardens or miniature landscapes due to its compact size and distinctive appearance.
- Crafts: The stems and leaves can be incorporated into wreaths, flower arrangements, or other craft projects for added texture and color.
- Color Themed Gardens: It can be used as a key plant for color themed garden designs, particularly those focusing on dark or "midnight" themes.
- Seasonal Decor: Branches may be used in fall or winter decor for both indoors and outdoors, complementing the seasonal color palette.
- Literary Inspiration: The unique appearance of the Hebe 'Midnight Sky' may serve as inspiration for writers and poets, evoking imagery of night skies and twilight in their work.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Hebe plant is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Hebe plant is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Enduring Love: The Hebe plant, often associated with the Greek goddess of youth, represents everlasting love that endures the test of time.
- Youthfulness: Named after Hebe, the Greek goddess who was the cupbearer for the gods and goddesses of Mount Olympus, it symbolizes the desire to retain or cherish one's youth.
- Unity: With its clustered flowers, the Hebe plant is sometimes seen as a symbol of unity or togetherness, bringing individuals together in harmony.
- Protection: In some cultures, Hebe plants are believed to offer protection due to their evergreen nature, representing perpetuity and resilience.
- Self-Discovery: The rich and deep color of 'Midnight Sky' reflects introspection and the pursuit of inner knowledge or self-discovery, encouraging one to look within.
WaterThe Hebe 'Midnight Sky' requires regular watering to maintain moist soil, especially during dry periods. However, it's important to avoid waterlogging. Water the plant thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which could be once or twice a week during the growing season. Your goal should be to provide about one to one and a half gallons of water each week, adjusting for rainfall and temperature conditions. During winter, reduce watering to when the soil is dry several inches down, as the plant's water needs decrease with cooler temperatures and reduced growth.
LightHebe 'Midnight Sky' thrives in a spot where it receives full sun to partial shade. An ideal location would offer morning sunlight and some afternoon shade, especially in regions with very hot summers. Avoid deep shade, as this can lead to poor growth and fewer blooms. The plant can tolerate a variety of light conditions but will have the best foliage color and flower production with the right balance of light.
TemperatureThe Hebe 'Midnight Sky' is hardy and can withstand temperatures as low as 20°F but performs best in temperatures ranging from 50°F to 75°F. It can tolerate brief periods of colder weather, but prolonged exposure to temperatures below 20°F may damage the plant. Providing a sheltered spot can help protect it from extreme cold.
PruningPruning Hebe 'Midnight Sky' can encourage bushier growth and improve the plant's overall shape. Prune in the spring after the last frost by removing any damaged or dead branches and shaping the plant as desired. Light pruning can also be done after the plant flowers to keep it tidy. Generally, hebe plants do not require heavy pruning, so it's best to prune lightly and regularly.
CleaningAs needed
SoilHebes require well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH, approximately between 5.5 and 7.0. Best soil mix for Hebe 'Midnight Sky' consists of two parts peat, two parts pine bark, and one part coarse sand or perlite to ensure proper drainage. Regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer suitable for acid-loving plants is recommended during the growing season.
RepottingHebes, such as the 'Midnight Sky', should generally be repotted every 2-3 years to prevent becoming root-bound and to refresh the nutrients in their soil. It's best to repot in spring or early summer when the plant is in its active growth phase.
Humidity & MistingHebe 'Midnight Sky' prefers moderate humidity levels, typical of outdoor environments. Protect it from excessively dry conditions which may occur in some regions or during periods of drought. Regular misting isn't necessary for these plants as long as outdoor humidity is within a normal range.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light; avoid hot, dry air.
Outdoor
Plant in well-draining soil, partial to full sun.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleHebe 'Midnight Sky' (Garden Beauty Series) begins its life cycle when a seed germinates in spring or a young plant is propagated from cuttings. The plant then enters a vegetative growth phase, where it develops a compact, bushy structure and dark green foliage. As the plant matures, it reaches its flowering stage in early to mid-summer, producing tall spikes of deep violet flowers that attract pollinators. After pollination, the flowers may turn into seed capsules if conditions are favorable and if not deadheaded, contributing to the species' propagation. Post flowering, the plant enters a resting phase in late summer to autumn where growth slows, and it prepares for winter dormancy, particularly in cooler climates. Upon the return of warmer spring weather, the cycle begins anew with fresh growth and an eventual return to its flowering stage.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Hebe Midnight Sky, part of the Garden Beauty Series, is often propagated through softwood cuttings. This method involves taking a cutting from new growth that is not yet hard, typically in late spring or early summer. To do this, a 3 to 5 inch (about 7.5 to 12.5 cm) cutting from the tip of a stem is taken, the lower leaves are removed, and the cut end is dipped in rooting hormone to encourage new root growth. The cutting should then be planted in a well-draining potting medium and kept in a humid environment under indirect light until roots have developed and it can be transplanted outside. This propagation method is popular due to its simplicity and high success rate for plant growers.
