Hebe Rakaiensis
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Plant Name | Hebe rakaiensis |
| Common Name | Rakai Hebe, Shrubby Veronica |
| Plant Type | Evergreen shrub |
| Height | 3 to 4 feet (0.9 to 1.2 meters) |
| Spread | 3 to 4 feet (0.9 to 1.2 meters) |
| Foliage | Small, spear-shaped, gray-green leaves |
| Flower Colour | White to pale lilac, small spikes in summer |
| Bloom Time | Summer |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
| Soil | Well-draining, fertile soil |
| Watering | Regular, especially during dry periods |
| Maintenance | Low to moderate |
| Uses | Borders, containers, coastal gardens |
| Notable Feature | Compact, mounded form, attractive to pollinators |
Planting Aspects
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Site Selection: Plant in full sun to partial shade.
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Soil Preparation: Well-draining, fertile soil is preferred.
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Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the nursery container.
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Spacing: Space plants about 3 to 4 feet apart.
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Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods.
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Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch to help retain soil moisture.
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Maintenance: Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape. Remove dead or crowded branches.
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Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring for optimal growth.
Hebe Rakaiensis, commonly known as Rakai Hebe or Shrubby Veronica, is an evergreen shrub valued for its compact, mounded form and attractive spear-shaped, grey-green leaves. In summer, it produces small spikes of white to pale lilac flowers, making it a charming addition to borders, containers, and coastal gardens. The plant is relatively low-maintenance and is known to attract pollinators with its blooms.