The past two winters have been tough ones for Hebes and the gardeners who love them. Having had a string of mild winters before 2008’s walloping snow storms, we had googly eyes for these transplants from New Zealand. Blinded by lust (Thick succulent leaves! Multi-colored variegation! Evergreen!) we ignored that many of them said zone 8. But I have dealt with so much Hebe death this season and last, that I am now a jaded lover, taking things slowly and demanding more than I ever have from this genus. Fool me once, etc., etc. Here are a few good specimens that have proven their worth and soothed my heart:
Hebe ‘Silver Dollar’
Hebe ochracea ‘James Stirling’
Hebe ‘Red Edge’