Koromiko

Also known as willow-leaved hebe, Hebe salicifolia is from New Zealand, but is sometimes found naturalised as a garden escape, especially in milder, coastal locations and sheltered limestone quarries. It’s a tough, medium-sized, evergreen shrub with a rather upright habit and long, narrow, willow-like, light green leaves. In summer, long, narrow racemes of tiny white to palest blue flowers are borne, which are highly attractive to pollinators. Koromiko will survive an average winter almost anywhere, but can suffer damage in a colder than usual winter. With its upright habit, it can be used as an informal hedge with year-round interest, especially useful in milder coastal areas.

Site: Sheltered; tolerates coastal locations
Soil: Well-drained soil, preferably neutral to alkaline; tolerates poor soils
Position: Full sun or partial shade
Season of interest: All year, summer in particular
Hardiness: Fairly hardy
Height: 6’6” (2m) Spread: 6’6” (2m)