Hebe Silver Dollar Hebe 'Silver Dollar' (v)

Water

The Hebe 'Silver Dollar', commonly known as Shrubby Veronica, should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Typically, this plant requires watering once every week but may need more frequent watering during hot, dry spells. The method involves watering at the base of the plant, avoiding wetting the foliage to prevent fungal diseases. It's important to provide a thorough soaking, so for potted plants, about 16-32 ounces of water until it runs out of the drainage holes would suffice, depending on the pot size and environmental conditions. In garden settings, a gentle watering that provides about 1 gallon per week is usually adequate, but always adjust based on rainfall and temperature.

Light

The Shrubby Veronica thrives in a location where it receives full sun to partial shade. The ideal spot would give it at least 6 hours of sunlight per day, though some afternoon shade can be beneficial in hotter climates. Avoid deep shade as it will lead to poor flowering and spindly growth.

Temperature

Shrubby Veronica does best in temperatures ranging from 50°F to 75°F; it can survive minimum temperatures down to around 30°F but should be protected from frost. The ideal temperature conditions are mild to warm but not excessively hot. This plant can tolerate a brief period of higher temperatures but sustained heat above 80°F may stress the plant.

Pruning

Shrubby Veronica benefits from pruning to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Prune in early spring or right after the plant has finished blooming to shape the plant and remove any dead or damaged branches. Pruning once a year or biennially is typically enough. Occasional light trimming can be done throughout the growing season to remove spent flowers and encourage additional blooming.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Shrubby veronica 'Silver Dollar' prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.5 - 7.5. A mix containing equal parts of peat, perlite, and loamy garden soil works best for this plant.

Repotting

Shrubby veronica 'Silver Dollar' should be repotted every 2-3 years to ensure it has enough room for growth and fresh soil for nutrients.

Humidity & Misting

Shrubby veronica 'Silver Dollar' thrives in moderate humidity levels, generally around 50% is ideal.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Shrubby veronica in a bright spot avoiding direct harsh sunlight.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial shade to sun, and shelter from strong winds.

• Hardiness zone

  7-10 USDA

Life cycle

The life of the Hebe 'Silver Dollar', also known simply as Hebe, begins with seed germination, which occurs under suitable conditions of temperature and moisture. Following germination, the seedling emerges and establishes itself, growing into a young plant with characteristic foliage. As the Hebe matures, it enters a vegetative stage marked by vigorous growth of leaves and stems; during this time, it may also be propagated asexually through cuttings. The adult plant then reaches the flowering stage, producing white or pale lilac flowers that attract pollinators, eventually leading to seed set if successful pollination occurs. After the flowering period, seeds are dispersed, completing the reproductive cycle. Throughout its life, the Hebe 'Silver Dollar' may experience repeated cycles of growth and flowering, typically with seasonal patterns, before eventually reaching senescence and dying.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The Hebe 'Silver Dollar', commonly known as Shrubby Veronica, is primarily propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings. The best time to propagate this plant is in late summer to early fall. Cuttings should be taken from the current year's growth and trimmed to a length of about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters). Remove the lower leaves and dip the end of the cutting in rooting hormone to encourage root development. The treated cutting should then be placed in a well-draining potting mix, ensuring that the nodes where the leaves were removed are buried. A humid environment is beneficial for root formation, often achieved by covering the pot with a plastic bag or using a propagator. Roots usually develop within a few weeks, after which the new plants can begin to be gradually acclimatized to less humid conditions before being planted out.