Hebe Autumn Glory or Veronica Autumn Glory

Hebe Autumn Glory, also known as Veronica Autumn Glory, is a compact, evergreen shrub celebrated for its rich green foliage and striking purple flowers that emerge in summer and continue into autumn. This variety is particularly valued for its adaptability to various soil conditions, thriving in well-drained soils and demonstrating resilience in coastal environments. Unlike smaller Hebe varieties such as Hebe Wiri Charm, which is compact with dark green foliage and dark pink-purple flowers, or Hebe Nicola’s Blush, which is low-growing with red-edged mid-green leaves and magenta-pink blooms fading to white, Hebe Autumn Glory offers a more upright and bushy habit, making it suitable for borders, plant containers, and coastal gardens.

Hebe Autumn Glory forms a dense, rounded mound of evergreen foliage, with glossy green leaves that may develop red margins in cooler temperatures. In summer, it produces spikes of deep lavender-blue flowers that fade to white, attracting pollinators and adding vibrant colour to the landscape. This extended flowering season enhances its appeal as a nectar-rich plant for bees and butterflies. Compared to other Hebe varieties, Hebe Autumn Glory's adaptability to a range of soil types and its suitability for coastal planting make it a versatile choice for gardeners seeking a hardy and visually appealing shrub.

Height and Spread of Hebe Autumn Glory:

Typically, Hebe Autumn Glory reaches a height of 0.5 to 1 metre and a similar spread, forming a compact and bushy shrub. Its moderate size makes it ideal for use in borders, containers, and coastal gardens, where space may be limited but a striking plant is desired.

How Hardy is Hebe Autumn Glory?

Hebe Autumn Glory is hardy in coastal areas and is well-suited to regions with mild winters. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of soil types, including chalk, clay, loam, and sand. 

Uses in Garden and Landscape:

Hebe Autumn Glory is perfect for creating a bold architectural feature in mixed borders, wildlife-friendly gardens, or coastal plantings. The tall, rounded habit provides backdrop structure, while the lilac-mauve to white racemes offer long-lasting summer and autumn colour. In combination plantings, it contrasts effectively with smaller Hebe varieties: Hebe Wiri Charm contributes compact dark foliage and vibrant pink-purple blooms, and Hebe Nicola’s Blush adds low, warm pink floral tones. The shrub also works well with companion plants such as lavenders, dwarf conifers, and ornamental grasses, allowing for layered plantings that combine height, colour, and texture, creating dynamic and visually appealing borders.

Care Tips:

Plant Hebe Autumn Glory in spring or early autumn into fertile, well-drained soil in a sunny or lightly shaded location. Water regularly during the first season until established, then moderately once settled. Light pruning after flowering will maintain a tidy shape and promote new growth, but avoid cutting into older wood. Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to support healthy foliage and abundant flowering. In colder regions or exposed positions, providing winter protection with horticultural fleece or situating container-grown specimens in a sheltered spot will help maintain leaf and flower quality. With minimal care, Hebe Autumn Glory provides long-term evergreen structure, striking floral displays, and excellent pollinator support.