Botanical name:

Hebe hulkeana

Common name(s):

NZ Lilac

About:

A visually striking species that grows into a small, loosely branching shrub reaching up to 1 m in height. The small, dark green leaves are finely serrated with reddish edges. From mid-spring through summer, this shrub presents a breathtaking display when adorned with long clusters of pale lavender to white flowers. Its natural habitat extends from sea level to 900 m in arid regions of the northeastern South Island. For optimal growth in gardens, H. hulkeana requires well-drained, light soil in a sunny location. It is susceptible to downy mildew in high humidity environments.

Natural habitat:

River gorges, coastal cliffs, rock outcrops, up to 900m, on limestone, greywacke, and conglomerate.

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun, Wind & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s South Island – Marlborough and Canterbury

Height: 1m

Flowering:

October-December with a violet/purple or white coloured flower/s

Fruiting:

November-February

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food & Riparian plantings.

How to grow:

Easily grown from fresh seed or semi hard wood cuttings.

** Seed germinates without pre treatment. Sow seed direct & keep moist until germination is complete.