Hailing all the way from New Zealand, the Hebe (also known as Shrubby Veronica) comes in over 140 different species. Here in our neck of the woods, we usually see about sixty varieties, some of which are tough enough to make it through the winter with a little help. Generally speaking, Hebes are pretty sensitive to the cold, but if you give them the right protection, they’ll pull through the chilly months just fine.
Caring for Hebe in the Winter
As soon as those autumn temperatures start to dip, it’s crunch time for your Hebe. Once the thermometer hits 40°F (5°C) at night, the plant can start to suffer damage. That’s your cue to either bring it inside or get it bundled up. Depending on your setup, you have a few options for overwintering:
- In the ground
- In large planters
- In window boxes
- As a houseplant
No matter where you keep them, the golden rules are: plenty of light, temperatures around 50°F (10°C), high humidity, very little water, and absolutely no fertilizer.
Overwintering in the Garden
Small-leafed Hebes are generally a bit hardier than the large-leafed varieties, but let’s be real—neither is truly “winter-proof.” Your best bet is to dig the perennial up, move it into a pot, and keep it in a bright, frost-free spot.
If you live in a region with mild winters, you can try leaving your Hebe in the garden. To protect it from frost, pile a thick layer of mulch over the root zone and cover the plant itself with brushwood or fir branches. Fir is great because it loses its needles slowly; this allows more light to reach the plant as spring approaches, giving it a head start on new growth.
Overwintering in Planters
Potted Hebes need a proper winter home. Look for a bright room that stays around 50°F. If you don’t have a spot with enough natural light, a grow light can work wonders. Don’t forget that these plants love humidity, so give them a regular misting with a spray bottle to keep them happy.
Overwintering in Window Boxes
Smaller Hebe varieties can also spend the winter in their window boxes. You can either bring the whole box into its winter quarters or protect it if it has to stay outside. If it’s staying out, wrap the box thickly in bubble wrap or insulating film and cover the plants with evergreen boughs.
Overwintering as a Houseplant
If you usually keep your Hebe on a sunny windowsill in the living room, it’s going to need a change of scenery for the winter. They really don’t like the dry heat from our radiators. During the “heating season,” move it to a bright, cool room—like a stairwell or an unheated sunroom. Just make sure it gets enough light; if the room is too dim, you might need to supplement with a plant lamp.
