What: Emerald Gem hebe is prized for its rounded, compact growth habit and striking year-round foliage. Its tiny coniferlike leaves make it a great specimen plant or a fine addition to a rock garden.
Why plant it? When young, Emerald Gem has a formal look, but it will soften in a few years to a mounding, slightly loose shrub with delicate stems that drift in the breeze. It rarely flowers, but when it does, its blooms look like small white puffs scattered on the tips of its branches.
Where: Excellent drainage and full sun are the key to success with hebes. Without good drainage, plants may be susceptible to root rot during long rainy spells.
How: Hebes are generally not long-lived plants, but should remain attractive in the garden for about 10 years. Mix them with smaller plants because they dislike competition. Few insects bother hebes.
Actual size: Emerald Gem grows slowly to about 3 feet tall and about 5 feet wide.
Learn more: See www.great plantpicks.org.
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