Hebe 'Red Edge' Hebe 'Red Edge'

Water

The Hebe 'Red Edge', commonly known as Shrubby veronica, should be watered deeply but infrequently, ensuring the soil has a chance to dry out slightly between waterings. Aim for about 1 gallon of water per plant every week during the growing season, though this may need to be adjusted depending on weather conditions such as heat or drought. In colder months or when the plant is not actively growing, reduce watering to every other week or as needed to keep the soil lightly moist, but never soggy.

Light

Shrubby veronica thrives best in a spot that receives full sun to partial shade. It performs well when it gets at least 6 hours of sunlight daily, but can tolerate light dappled shade, particularly in the afternoon during the hottest part of the day. Place it in a location where it can get adequate light without being exposed to harsh midday sun that might scorch its leaves.

Temperature

Shrubby veronica prefers a temperate climate and can generally handle temperatures between 30°F to 70°F. It is hardy to about 15°F but should be protected from extreme cold. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 50°F and 65°F, where it can grow comfortably without the risk of frost or heat stress.

Pruning

Pruning Shrubby veronica promotes healthy growth and maintains its compact shape. Trim the plant lightly after it flowers to encourage bushiness and remove any dead or damaged stems. Typically, pruning is done annually or after the flowering season, although shaping can be done as needed throughout the year to keep the plant looking tidy.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for Hebe 'Red Edge' should be well-draining with a mixture of loam, peat, and sharp sand to facilitate drainage. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.5 to 7.0. Adding organic matter can enhance soil fertility and structure, benefiting the plant's growth.

Repotting

Hebe 'Red Edge' should be repotted every 2 to 3 years or when it has outgrown its current pot. Younger plants may require more frequent repotting, while mature plants can be repotted less often, especially if they are planted in the ground.

Humidity & Misting

Hebe 'Red Edge' can tolerate a range of humidity conditions, but thrives best in moderate to high humidity levels. This shrubby perennial does not require excessively high humidity and can adapt to the typical outdoor ambient humidity in its growing regions.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright indirect light, ensure good air circulation.

• Outdoor

  Plant in well-drained soil; protect from harsh winds.

• Hardiness zone

  7-10 USDA

Life cycle

The life of Hebe 'Red Edge', also known as Shrubby Veronica, begins with germination, where seeds sprout in moist, well-drained soil in spring or early summer. Following germination, the seedling phase sees the establishment of a root system and the emergence of the first true leaves. As the plant enters its vegetative stage, it develops a woody structure and oval-shaped leaves with red margins, which is characteristic of the 'Red Edge' cultivar. The flowering stage occurs in late spring to summer, with Hebe 'Red Edge' producing spikes of small lavender to white flowers that attract pollinators. After pollination, the plant may produce small, inconspicuous fruits with seeds that can disperse to give rise to new plants. Finally, once mature, the Hebe 'Red Edge' can reach a height of around 50 cm and has a lifespan of several years, with the possibility of becoming woody and less attractive as it ages, thus potentially requiring rejuvenation through pruning or propagating cuttings.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The most popular method for propagating Hebe 'Red Edge' is through semi-ripe cuttings. The ideal time to take these cuttings is in the late summer. To do this, select a healthy, non-flowering shoot and cut a segment approximately 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) long, just below a leaf node. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cut end may be dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root development. The cutting should then be placed in a well-draining potting mixture, ensuring that a few leaf nodes are buried beneath the soil surface. The pot should be placed in a warm, partially shaded location and kept moist until roots have established, after which it can be potted on or eventually planted out.