H12 in. x W36 in. This subalpine shrub has a lax growth habit and beautiful black stems with deep green, rounded leaves edged with red.  Short racemes of white flowers appear in early to midsummer. Hardy to Zone 7.

Hebes are evergreen shrubs from New Zealand, grown for their compact habit and small, sometimes bizarre foliage. Dense racemes of flowers are a bonus in summer. A sunny site in moist, sandy loam is preferable. Excellent in coastal areas, and a great substitute for boxwood hedging. Smaller varieties are ideal container subjects.