August is the perfect time to celebrate Hebe, an evergreen shrub renowned for its colourful summer flowers and year-round beauty. These versatile plants range from low-growing groundcovers to neat, bun-shaped mounds, and even tall, bushy varieties perfect for the back of a border. Hebes are ideal for teaming with perennials and ornamental grasses, making striking focal points, and providing winter interest. Additionally, their flowers attract pollinators, enhancing the biodiversity of your garden.
That’s why Boma Garden Centre has chosen Hebe as August’s Plant of the Month. We are excited to showcase these wonderful shrubs and offer a wide variety to suit every garden style and preference.
A Glimpse into the History and Origins of Hebe
Hebes hail from New Zealand and South America, where they flourish in diverse environments ranging from coastal areas to mountainous regions. Named after the Greek goddess of youth, Hebe, these plants have long been revered for their enduring beauty and resilience. Over time, Hebes have become a popular choice for gardens worldwide, prized for their versatility and stunning visual appeal.
The Allure of Hebe Shrubs
What makes Hebe so special? For starters, these shrubs come in an incredible array of colours and forms, providing endless possibilities for garden design. From the eye-catching variegated leaves of the Hebe Magic Colours Pack to the lush green foliage of Emerald Green and the vibrant flowers of varieties like Donna Emma and Donna Katrina, there’s a Hebe to suit every taste.
Explore the Diverse Varieties of Hebe at Boma
At Boma Garden Centre, we stock a wide range of Hebes to cater to all your gardening needs. Some of the popular varieties we offer include:
• Hebe Magic Colours Pack: A mix of vibrant, variegated leaves that change colours with the seasons.
• Hebe Emerald Green: Known for its lush, green foliage that provides a great backdrop for other plants.
• Hebe Blooms: Celebrated for its prolific flowering, adding bursts of colour to your garden.
• Hebe Donna Series (Donna Emma, Donna Katrina, Donna Eva, Donna White): Each of these offers unique colours and forms, from deep purples to bright whites.
• Hebe Burning Heart: A striking variety with red-tinted leaves and a compact growth habit.
• Hebe Wiri Charm: Features small, dark green leaves and a profusion of flowers.
• Hebe Dark Angel: Known for its dark, almost black foliage that provides a dramatic contrast in the garden.
• Hebe Mrs Winder: Offers deep purple flowers and a compact form.
• Hebe Jewel of the Nile: A unique variety with bright, jewel-toned flowers.
• Hebe Baby Marie: Perfect for smaller gardens or containers, with its delicate form and pretty flowers.
Perfect Placement and Display
Hebes are incredibly versatile and can be used in various garden settings. They make excellent border plants, adding structure and colour to flower beds. Their compact size and attractive foliage also make them perfect for planters.
When it comes to displaying Hebes in planters, think about the textures and colours that will best complement your garden’s aesthetic. At Boma, we offer a wide range of planters in various materials, including terracotta, polystone, glazed, fibreclay, stone, and aged antique-look options.
• Terracotta Planters: These classic planters add a warm, earthy tone that pairs beautifully with the vibrant greens and purples of Hebes like the Emerald Green and Donna Katrina. Ideal for creating a rustic or Mediterranean feel on your patio or balcony.
• Polystone and Glazed Planters: For a modern look, consider sleek polystone or glossy glazed planters. The smooth surfaces and contemporary finishes create a striking contrast with the textured foliage of Hebes like the Magic Colours Pack or Dark Angel. Perfect for a stylish display in a garden or outdoor living space.
• Fibreclay and Stone Planters: If you’re aiming for a natural, organic look, fibreclay and stone planters offer a wonderful blend of durability and aesthetics. Their muted tones complement the subtle hues of Hebes such as the Donna White and Mrs Winder, making them ideal for garden borders or as focal points on a patio.
• Aged and Antique-look Planters: These planters add a touch of vintage charm, enhancing the timeless appeal of Hebes like the Burning Heart or Jewel of the Nile. They’re perfect for creating a classic, elegant look in any outdoor space.
Consider the size and placement of your planters to make the most of your Hebes. Smaller planters are perfect for balconies or compact garden spaces, while larger planters can make a bold statement on patios or in spacious garden areas. Mixing different sizes and styles can create a dynamic and visually interesting display.
Caring for Your Hebe
One of the many reasons gardeners love Hebes is their low-maintenance nature. Here are some tips to ensure your Hebe plants thrive:
• Soil and Compost: Hebes prefer well-drained soil. Using a high-quality compost, like the ones available at Boma, can help improve soil structure and fertility.
• Watering: While Hebes are drought-tolerant once established, it’s important to keep the soil moist, especially during the first few months after planting. Be careful not to overwater, as they do not like soggy soil.
• Sunlight: Hebes love sunlight. Plant them in a spot where they can receive full sun to partial shade. Too much shade can result in leggy growth and fewer flowers.
• Feeding: Feeding your Hebe with a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in the spring can promote healthy growth and flowering. Boma offers a variety of plant feeds that are perfect for Hebes.
• Pruning: Light pruning after flowering can help maintain the shape of the plant and encourage new growth. Avoid heavy pruning, as Hebes can be slow to recover.
Hebe Special Offers
To make it even easier to add Hebes to your garden, Boma's in-store special offers on Hebe's during August allows you to mix and match varieties to create your perfect garden display. It's an excellent opportunity to enjoy this unique plant during the final month of the summer heading into autumn.
Bring a touch of New Zealand’s natural beauty to your garden with Hebes from Boma. We look forward to helping you create a stunning garden that you can enjoy year-round. See you at Boma Garden Centre!
