Hebe 'Snowdrift'

Willow Leaf Hebe / Shrubby Veronica

Botanical Name: Hebe 'Snowdrift'
Family: Plantaginaceae
Origin: New Zealand
Plant Type: Evergreen shrub

Overview

Hebe ‘Snowdrift’ is a compact, sun-loving evergreen that covers itself in long white flower spikes through the warmer months. Tough, neat and salt-tolerant—perfect for low hedges, borders and coastal pots in South Australian gardens.

Key Features

• Mature Size: 0.6–1.2 m H × 0.8–1.2 m W
• Growth Rate: 20-40 cm per year under good conditions
• Foliage: Evergreen, glossy mid-green; tidy, compact habit; new growth bright green (may bronze slightly in cold)
• Flowers: Showy white spikes; lightly fragrant; nectar-rich
  
• Seasonal Interest: Late spring–autumn (Oct–Apr) peak; remove spent blooms to extend flowering
• Wildlife Value: Attracts bees & butterflies
• Tolerance: Drought-tolerant (once established), heat-tolerant (afternoon shade inland), wind-tolerant, second-line coastal-tolerant; light–moderate frost (protect from hard frost); clay-tolerant with drainage
• Planting Density: Low hedge: 3–4 plants per metre; borders: 1 plant per 0.6–0.8 m
• Pet Friendly: Yes — non-toxic to cats and dogs

Where It Works Best

• Sunlight: Full sun to part shade (best flowering in sun; some afternoon shade inland)
• Soil: Free-draining loam or sandy loam; tolerates improved light clay
• Water Needs: Establishment: 2 deep soaks/week for 8–12 weeks. Established: deep soak every 10–14 days in summer; monthly in winter if dry
• Maintenance: Mulch in spring; lightly trim after flowering to keep compact; feed in early spring with a balanced slow-release fertiliser
• Lifespan: 8–12+ years
• Climate Zones: Suited to temperate and Mediterranean SA, including coastal areas
• Soil pH: Slightly acidic to mildly alkaline

Landscape & Design Ideas

• Low, evergreen edging and pathway borders; clip for a crisp hedge line.
• Mass plant in front gardens or on gentle banks for a long white summer display with minimal care
• Statement containers by entries or patios; ideal for coastal pots and small courtyards

Why You Will Love It

Enjoy months of clean white flower spikes on a compact, tidy shrub that lifts kerb appeal instantly. Tough enough for South Australian conditions—heat, wind and coastal—so it keeps performing where fussier plants fail. A low-maintenance, pollinator-friendly evergreen that’s perfect for borders, mass plantings and pots.