Hebes: A Guide to Species, Hybrids and Allied Genera

Description

The genus Hebe is a treasure trove of more than 100 species and subspecies of medium-sized to dwarf evergreen shrubs with outstanding ornamental features, both of flower and leaf. Native to New Zealand, these plants are grown in Australia, the western United States, the United Kingdom, and continental Europe. Many species boast handsome foliage, ranging from a rich, glittering green to gray, silver, bronze, red, and violet. This definitive volume provides a wealth of information about the native habitats, preferred growing conditions, cultivation, and history of hebes, and an A-Z guide to all the known species and most horticulturally valuable hybrids. Also included are the many attractive Hebe relatives: Heliohebe, xHeohebe, Parahebe, and Chionohebe. For gardeners, growers, and nurseries, this is the definitive volume on these aristocrats among ornamental shrubs.

Lawrie Metcalf is among the world's leading experts on the flora of New Zealand. He has worked in botanical gardens in Melbourne and Adelaide, Australia, was assistant director of the Christchurch Botanic Gardens in New Zealand, and was director of parks and recreation for the Invercargill City Council from 1977 to 1992 . He is a recipient of the prestigious Gold Veitch Memorial Medal, the highest honor that the Royal Horticultural Society awards to people outside the U.K. He is the author of several books on native New Zealand plants and has received numerous horticultural honors and awards. Prior to writing Hebes, he was the researcher and compiler of the International Register of Hebe Cultivars.

A timely and gardener-friendly book. -- Trevor Nottle Department of Further Education Employment Science and Technology 20060701 This definitive volume provides a wealth of information about the native habitats, preferred growing conditions, cultivation, and history of hebes, and an A-Z guide to all the known species and most horticulturally valuable hybrids. For gardeners, growers, and nurseries, this is the definitive volume on these aristocrats among ornamental shrubs. U. C. Santa Cruz Currents Online 20060828 An essential reference for every hebe enthusiast. ... The fascinating history of the genus and its cultivation throughout the world may stimulate armchair gardeners, but the chapter on propogation ... will be the highlight that rouses them from their armchairs to turn towards the potting shed. -- Martin Searle Plant Heritage 20070802