Hebe ‘Coed’: The Evergreen Beauty with Spiraling Flowers
Hebe ‘Coed’, also known as Coed Hebe, is a captivating evergreen shrub cherished for its unique spiral flowers. Belonging to the family Plantaginaceae, this variety is part of the genus Hebe, native to the regions of New Zealand and Australia. The genus Hebe encompasses a diverse array of over 100 species, and ‘Coed’ stands out as a remarkable hybrid, resulting from the crossing of Hebe pinguifolia and Hebe speciosa. The name “Hebe” traces its origins to Greek mythology, being derived from the goddess of youth.
The discovery of Hebe ‘Coed’ occurred in 1969, and it has since become a popular choice for gardens, borders, and containers. This slow-growing shrub boasts dark green, glossy oval leaves with maroon stems, forming a globe-shaped shrub that reaches an average landscape size of 2-3 feet in width and height. Its beauty further unfolds as spires of lavender-pink flowers emerge, gracing the landscape from late summer through fall. With a hardiness of 15 degrees Fahrenheit, ‘Coed’ thrives in mild climates, enchanting garden enthusiasts with its long blooming season and attractive appearance.
Characteristics:
The leaves of Hebe ‘Coed’ are a testament to its evergreen allure. Arranged in opposite pairs, these dark green leaves exude a glossy sheen, enhancing their visual appeal. Complementing the foliage are the exquisite lavender-pink flowers, which stand proudly in spikes at the ends of the stems. The floral display captures attention, forming spiral-like patterns that make Hebe ‘Coed’ a truly mesmerizing sight during its extended blooming period.
Long Flowering Season: With its blooms gracing the landscape from late summer through fall, Hebe ‘Coed’ provides an extended flowering season, adding bursts of color and interest to gardens during the autumn months.
Cultivation of Hebe ‘Coed’:
Sunlight: For optimal growth and blooming, plant Hebe ‘Coed’ in an area that receives full to partial sun. The shrub thrives in well-lit conditions, contributing to the vibrancy of its flowers and foliage.
Watering: To establish a healthy root system, provide regular watering for your Hebe ‘Coed.’ Once established, reduce watering frequency, except during periods of extreme heat. As a drought-tolerant plant, it can withstand dry spells with ease.
Soil: ‘Coed’ prefers well-draining or sandy soil, which promotes healthy root development and prevents waterlogged conditions that could harm the plant.
Pest and Disease: Hebe ‘Coed’ can be susceptible to aphids, scale insects, and powdery mildew. Keep a vigilant eye on your plant and take prompt action if any pests or diseases are detected. Insecticidal soap or appropriate fungicides can be employed for effective control.
Pruning: To maintain its fresh appearance and encourage new growth, lightly prune Hebe ‘Coed’ by trimming back spent blooms during mid-spring.
Low-Maintenance: With its resistance to pests and diseases, and minimal pruning needs, ‘Coed’ is a low-maintenance option, ideal for busy gardeners seeking a captivating yet undemanding shrub.
Propagation:
Hebe ‘Coed’ can be propagated through two primary methods: cuttings and seeds.
Cuttings: During the summer, take 4-6 inch cuttings from the new growth. Remove the bottom leaves and dip the cutting in the rooting hormone. Plant it in a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix, ensuring the soil remains moist. With proper care, the cutting should root within 4-6 weeks.
Seeds: Sow the seeds in a pot of well-draining potting mix during the spring. Keep the soil consistently moist and place the pot in a warm location. Germination should occur within 2-3 weeks.
Growing Hebe ‘Coed’ offers numerous advantages for garden enthusiasts:
Beneficial to Pollinators: The lavender-pink flowers attract bees and other beneficial insects, promoting pollination and contributing to a thriving garden ecosystem.
Drought-Tolerant: As a drought-tolerant plant, Hebe ‘Coed’ requires less frequent watering, making it an excellent choice for regions with limited rainfall.
Hebe ‘Coed’ stands as a captivating evergreen shrub, delighting gardening enthusiasts with its spiral flowers and glossy green leaves. Native to the enchanting landscapes of New Zealand and Australia, this unique hybrid showcases the beauty of the Hebe genus. Its popularity stems from its long blooming season, attraction to beneficial insects, and drought tolerance, all contributing to its appeal in gardens, borders, and containers. With proper care and attention, Hebe ‘Coed’ will undoubtedly thrive, gracing any landscape with its exquisite presence and enchanting observers with its delicate lavender-pink spires.
