Hebe Franciscana 'Blue Gem'
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Hebe 'Blue Gem' / Combe Royal
Botanical Name: Hebe franciscana 'Blue Gem'
Family: Plantaginaceae
Origin: New Zealand
Plant Type: Evergreen shrub
Overview
Hebe ‘Blue Gem’ is a compact, sun-loving hebe that smothers itself in vivid violet-purple flower spikes for months. With glossy evergreen foliage and a neat habit, it’s a standout for low hedges, borders and coastal pots in South Australian gardens.
Key Features
- Mature Size: 0.8–1.2 m H × 0.8–1.2 m W
- Growth Rate: 20-40 cm per year under good conditions
- Foliage: Evergreen, glossy deep green; tight, bushy habit; new growth bright green, may bronze/purple in cold
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Flowers: Showy violet-purple spikes; lightly fragrant; nectar-rich
- Seasonal Interest: Late spring–autumn (Oct–Apr) peak; trim spent spikes to extend blooming
- Wildlife Value: Attracts bees & butterflies
- Tolerance: Drought-tolerant (once established), heat-tolerant, wind-tolerant, second-line coastal-tolerant; light–moderate frost (protect from hard frost); clay-tolerant with good drainage
- Planting Density: Low hedge: 3–4 plants per metre; borders: space 0.6–1.0 m apart
- Pet Friendly: Yes — non-toxic to cats and dogs
Where It Works Best
- Sunlight: Full sun to part shade (best flowering in sun)
- Soil: Well-drained 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 with a balanced slow-release fertiliser in early spring
- Lifespan: 8–12+ years
- Climate Zones: Zones: Suited to temperate and Mediterranean SA, including coastal areas
- Soil pH: Slightly acidic to mildly alkaline
Landscape & Design Ideas
- Clip into a low hedge or path edging for year-round structure and bold seasonal colour
- Mass plant in front gardens or banks for a long purple display with minimal upkeep
- Feature in pots by entries and patios; ideal for coastal courtyards
Why You Will Love It
Expect months of vivid purple blooms on a compact, glossy evergreen that instantly boosts kerb appeal. ‘Blue Gem’ thrives in SA’s heat and coastal breezes with very little fuss, delivering reliable colour, pollinator activity and an easy, tidy hedge or border you’ll love year after year.