Hebe pinguifolia 'Sutherlandii'

Shrubby Veronica, Hebe pinguifolia, is an attractive evergreen shrub ideal for using as informal hedging. It has thick, grey-green foliage and purple stems, which contrast beautifully with spikes of white flowers from late spring to early summer. Like many hebes, its blooms are attractive to bees.

Hebe pinguifolia 'Sutherlandii' is a dwarf variety, forming low, carpeting mounds of small, grey-green leaves, setting off the white flowers with blue anthers. It's perfect for growing in groups as ground cover, in a sunny or partially shaded spot. One of the hardiest hebes, it's tolerant of salt and pollution and therefore ideal for growing in coastal or inner city locations.

For best results grow Hebe pinguifolia 'Sutherlandii' in moist but well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil. There's usually no need to prune, but remove damaged or crossed branches in spring.