Hebe ‘Mrs Winder’, also referred to as, Hebe ‘Waikiki’, Shrubby Veronica, or Hebe ‘Warleyensis’ is a cultivar of the Hebe vernicosa species belonging to the Plantaginaceae family. It is a compact, low-growing, evergreen shrub perfect for flowering hedges.
Hebe Mrs WinderAdditionally, this plant has narrow, dark green summer leaves that are decorative and sometimes variegated; changing to purple or almost bronze in winter, with the young new growth tinged with a reddish-brown colour.It flowers profusely from late summer, throughout autumn, and even into early winter. Although blooms can be insignificant, they appear in long, tapered, spikes of violet-blue, purple, pink, or white shades.
How to Grow Hebe ‘Mrs Winder’
Shrubby Veronica is a plant that grows somewhat faster when young but slows once it reaches its maximum height. It is best propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings in summer and can be grown in pots and containers.
Mainly grown for its winter foliage, this variety is best suited for coastal areas and cannot thrive when subjected to prolonged freezing temperatures. It requires adequate watering after planting, but little maintenance once established.
Also, it is a low-maintenance plant particularly suitable for low hedges and hence, is best trimmed in mounds annually to retain the desired shape and pruned by deadheading in the growing season to keep it blooming.
Where should I position Hebe ‘Mrs Winder’ in my garden?
Shrubby Veronicas can be placed facing any aspect, with a preference for sunny spots. This variety is tough and capable of withstanding salt-laden winds, although they also benefit from being sheltered from fierce winter winds.
How much does Hebe ‘Mrs Winder’ spread?
Hebe ‘Mrs Winder’ is a spreading shrub that is capable of reaching a width of 3 to 5 feet.
How tall does Hebe ‘Mrs Winder’ grow?
In ideal conditions, Shrubby veronica can grow to a height of 4 feet although it mostly grows 2 to 3 feet tall or slightly lesser. It has a slow to average growth rate and can reach a maximum height in about 5 to 10 years.
What kind of soil does Hebe ‘Mrs Winder’ need?
This plant can tolerate any soil of poor to moderate fertility, with a preference for soils of alkaline or neutral pH that is moist and well-draining. It can also grow in acidic soil if improved with mulch and compost.
Where to buy Hebe Mrs Winder?