Hebe: Grow And Prune Guide

Hebes are popular evergreen shrubs, mostly native to New Zealand although some are native to Australia and South America. They come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, and are suitable for growing in a range of sites and planting schemes. Hebes are excellent in shrub borders, used as ground cover or low-growing hedging, and are relatively low-maintenance.

Hebes flower over a long period – all year round in mild regions – with flower colours including pink, blue and white. They can be an important late-year source of nectar and pollen for bumblebees. Leaf colour varies too, from dark green to pink and variegated. Less-hardy hebes can be grown in cool glass or alpine houses.

Most hebes thrive in moist but free-draining soil in full sun to partial shade, ideally in a sheltered spot protected from winds. They don’t need rich soils and will tolerate drought.

Deadhead spent blooms to improve the look of your hebe and keep it flowering for longer. Prune back in late summer to encourage strong new growth and a good overall shape.

Jump to Best hebes to grow

More on growing hebes:

• How to take hebe cuttings
• Osteospermum and hebe pot display
• Nectar and pollen throughout the year

Find out more about growing and caring for hebes below.

Hebes are native to scrubland and, as such, are tough plants, however, they do need protection from cold winter winds. Some hebes are hardier than others – as a general rule, large-leaved varieties are more tender than small-leaved ones. They’re tolerant of salt and can therefore be grown in coastal situations.

Choose a sheltered spot for your hebe, such as in front of a south- or west-facing wall. Hebes are tolerant of poor soils so will grow virtually