Botanical name:

Hebe townsonii

Common name(s): 

Hebe

About:

A small shrub typically growing up to 1 m in height, it features an erect habit and possesses long, narrow leaves that provide a distinctive appearance. The inflorescence measures approximately 10 cm in length and is adorned with loosely clustered flowers that range in colour from pale mauve to white, blooming beautifully during the spring season. Its distribution is primarily localised in the northern region of the South Island. This adaptable plant will thrive in either full sun or partial shade, provided it is planted in well-drained soil that allows for proper drainage.

Natural habitat:

Scrub on and around calcium-rich rocks.

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun, Shade, Salt, Wind, Coastal & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s South Island - northern and western Nelson, and north Westland. It is known from only a few localities, between Mount Burnell in the north and Punakaiki in the South, mostly near the West Coast, with one record from the Graham Valley, Arthur Range.

Height: 1m

Flowering:
September-November (-January) with a violet/purple or white coloured flower/s.

Fruiting:

(October-) November-February (-August)

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food, Riparian plantings, Pioneer Plantings & Flowers.

How to grow:

Easily grown from fresh seed, semi hardwood cuttings & layering.

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