Veronica 'Inspiration' (H)

RHS Plant Profile
hebe 'Inspiration'

Synonyms

Hebe 'Inspiration'

Plants for pollinators
Shrubs

An evergreen shrub with a wide spreading and arching habit, with dark green rounded lance-shaped leaves. With racemes of purple flowers in summer, they can provide a second flush of flowers if they are pruned straight after flowering

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

1-1.5 metres

Max Spread

0.5-1 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
5–10 years
Max Spread
0.5-1 metres
Max Height
1-1.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Well–drained
pH
Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
West–facing or South–facing or North–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H4
Drought Resistance
Yes

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Plantaginaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Spreading branched
Genus
Veronica can be annuals, perennials or sub-shrubs with paired leaves and small flowers usually in terminal or axillary racemes or spikes
Name Status
Accepted
Horticultural Group
This genus has changed from Hebe to Veronica

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grows well in poor to moderately fertile soil in sun or partial shade and is tolerant of some pollution. Plant in spring for best establishment before winter, may require some winter protection in cold areas

Propagation

Propagate by taking semi-hardwood cuttings in summer with added bottom heat

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Low Maintenance
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

Pruning group 9, winter damage may need removing after a harsh winter

Pests

May be susceptible to aphids

Diseases

May be susceptible to downy mildews, fungal leaf spot, fungal rot, Phytophthora and sometimes honey fungus