Hebe Pink Elephant Hebe 'Pink Elephant' (v)
ABOUT
Hebe 'Pink Elephant' is a visually attractive plant that features a blend of foliage and blooms that add color and texture to gardens. The leaves of this plant are variegated, meaning they have a mix of colors. These leaves are typically green with creamy edges, sometimes having a hint of pink, especially in cooler temperatures. This variegation creates a striking contrast that is visually appealing. The plant produces flowers that add another layer of interest. These flowers are usually arranged in spiked inflorescences that rise above the foliage. They can range from a pale lilac to a deeper pink color. When in bloom, 'Pink Elephant' offers a generous display that can last for several weeks, providing a long-lasting splash of color. Overall, Hebe 'Pink Elephant' is appreciated for its decorative appearance, which can complement various garden styles. The variegated foliage, coupled with its charming flowers, makes it a lovely addition to mixed borders, containers, and as a standalone specimen. Its visual characteristics contribute to its popularity among gardeners looking to add a touch of elegance to their outdoor spaces.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Plantaginaceae
Synonyms
Pink Elephant Hebe, Veronica Pink Elephant
Common names
Hebe 'Pink Elephant' (v)
ToxicityTo humans
Hebe is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, as with any plant, individual sensitivities can vary and it’s prudent to avoid ingesting plant matter that is not known to be edible. If ingested, there might be a risk of gastrointestinal discomfort or irritation.
To pets
Hebe is also generally considered non-toxic to pets. But, as with humans, pets may have individual sensitivities. If a pet ingests this plant, they might experience mild gastrointestinal upset, although serious toxicity is unlikely. Always monitor your pet for any unusual symptoms and consult with a veterinarian if any concerns arise.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
3 feet (0.91 meter)
Spread
3 feet (0.91 meter)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
New Zealand
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Foliage: Hebe 'Pink Elephant' has variegated leaves that add visual interest to gardens and landscapes.
- Colorful Blooms: The plant produces pink flowers that can provide a splash of color in garden settings.
- Compact Size: Its small stature makes it suitable for various garden sizes, including container gardening.
- Low Maintenance: Hebe 'Pink Elephant' requires minimal care once established, making it ideal for busy or novice gardeners.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it can withstand periods of dry weather with less frequent watering.
- Attracts Wildlife: The flowers can attract pollinators like bees and butterflies to the garden.
- Versatility: Suitable for use in borders, beds, and as a ground cover, due to its adaptable nature.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Insect Habitat: Hebe 'Pink Elephant' can provide shelter and breeding grounds for beneficial garden insects such as bees and butterflies, contributing to biodiversity in your garden.
- Themed Gardens: Because of its unique pink foliage, it can be used in thematic garden designs such as 'whimsical' or 'fairy tale' gardens.
- Educational Tool: Hebe 'Pink Elephant' could be used in educational settings, such as schools or botanical gardens, to teach about plant growth, pruning techniques, and horticultural practices.
- Living Sculptures: With its dense growth habit, it can be trimmed and shaped into living sculptures or topiaries, providing an artistic element to the landscape.
- Garden Borders: Its compact size and colorful leaves make it suitable for creating borders in garden pathways, adding structure and definition to the garden layout.
- Soil Erosion Control: The plant can be used on slopes or areas with erosion problems as its root system helps to stabilize the soil and prevent runoff.
- Photography Backdrop: Hebe 'Pink Elephant' can be used as a natural, colorful backdrop for outdoor photography, highlighting other garden elements or as a setting for portraits.
- Gift Plants: Small Hebe 'Pink Elephant' plants make unique and thoughtful gifts for gardening enthusiasts or for those who enjoy cultivating ornamental plants.
- Seasonal Decor: Sprigs or branches of Hebe 'Pink Elephant' can be used in floral arrangements or as decoration during the holidays, adding a splash of color to interior designs.
- Culinary Garnish: Though not widely reported, some Hebe varieties have edible flowers; if non-toxic, Hebe 'Pink Elephant' could potentially be used for ornamental garnishing on special dishes (verification needed for edibility).
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- Youth and Vitality: The name "Hebe" comes from the Greek goddess of youth, representing the fresh, youthful appearance and vitality of the plant's leaves and flowers.
- Eternal Love: With its evergreen nature and long-lasting blooms, Hebe could symbolize enduring affection and commitment.
- Unity and Harmony: The dense, harmonious growth habit can be seen as a representation of unity and togetherness in relationships.
- Protection: In some traditions, evergreen plants like Hebe are considered to be protective, warding off negative energy and providing shelter.
- Rejuvenation: The plant's ability to bounce back after pruning and maintain a lush appearance can symbolize resilience and the power of rejuvenation.
WaterHebe 'Pink Elephant', commonly known as Veronica 'Pink Elephant', prefers even moisture and does not tolerate drought well. During the growing season, water the plant thoroughly once a week, providing about 1 gallon of water each time, depending on weather conditions. However, make sure the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging. In hot, dry periods, you may need to water more frequently. Reduce watering in the winter months when the plant’s growth slows down and only water if the soil is dry to the touch.
LightVeronica 'Pink Elephant' thrives best in full sun to partial shade conditions. Ideally, this plant should be placed in a spot where it can receive at least six hours of sunlight daily. However, in particularly hot climates, some afternoon shade is beneficial to prevent scorching of the leaves.
TemperatureVeronica 'Pink Elephant' prefers moderate temperatures and can generally tolerate conditions ranging from 30°F to 75°F. Although it can survive brief periods of frost, it is best to protect the plant during extreme cold. The ideal temperature range for this Veronica is between 60°F and 70°F.
PruningVeronica 'Pink Elephant' should be pruned to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Pruning is best done in the early spring before new growth begins or after the blooming period to remove spent flowers. Pruning every year or two will keep your Veronica looking its best.
CleaningAs needed
SoilHebe 'Pink Elephant', commonly known as Shrubby Veronica, thrives in well-draining soil mix composed of peat, perlite, and garden loam. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH levels, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0, for optimal growth.
RepottingShrubby Veronica should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it becomes root-bound to ensure continued health and growth.
Humidity & MistingShrubby Veronica prefers moderate humidity levels around 40-50%, avoiding extremely dry or overly moist air conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure pot has good drainage.
Outdoor
Plant in well-draining soil, full sun to part shade.
Hardiness zone
8-10 USDA
Life cycleHebe 'Pink Elephant' begins its life cycle as a seed, which, when sown in well-draining soil and given the right conditions, germinates to sprout a small seedling. The seedling then grows into a young plant, developing a strong root system and foliage as it matures. During its growth phase, it becomes a bushy and rounded evergreen shrub, with the foliage often exhibiting variegated grey-green leaves with creamy-yellow edges. As it enters the flowering stage, typically in summer, it produces spikes of mauve-pink flowers that attract pollinators. After pollination, it may produce small seeds, although Hebe 'Pink Elephant' is often propagated through cuttings for more consistent plant qualities. The shrub can live for many years, but over time, it may become woody and less vigorous, at which point it can be pruned back to encourage new growth or replaced if necessary.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The Hebe 'Pink Elephant', commonly referred to as Shrubby Veronica, is best propagated using semi-hardwood cuttings. This method is typically undertaken during late summer after the new growth has started to mature. A cutting of about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) is taken from a current year's growth, ensuring it has a few leaves. The lower leaves are removed and the cut end can be dipped in a rooting hormone to facilitate root development. Next, the cutting is placed in a well-draining potting mix and kept in a warm, humid environment with indirect sunlight. Consistent moisture is crucial, but overwatering should be avoided to prevent rot. It may take several weeks for the cutting to root, after which it can be gradually acclimatized to outdoor conditions before planting out in the garden.
