PARAHEBE. New Zealand. A group of herbaceous and semishrubby perennials, closely related to Hebe but generally smaller and of more delicate appearance. They have creeping stems, which may form broad mats, and often more or less upright branches. Small, usually toothed, often glossy leaves are neatly paired along the stems. Small white to lavender blue flowers are carried above the foliage. Some are fine rock garden plants. Others are unusual additions to the perennial border. Most thrive in sun or light shade, with reasonably well drained, non-alkaline soil and moderate to regular watering. They are best near the coast, not tolerating high heat. The following are probably hardy to 15^oF or less.

linifolia. A dense, semishrubby mound with dark, highly polished leaves. Above these pure white flowers are presented on graceful stems in spring and fall.

perfoliata. An unusual plant, nearly defying comparison to anything else I know. Several 1-2’ stems radiate from a narrow base, each nearly prostrate but curving upward towards the tip. Broad, nearly triangular bluish green leaves clasp the stems and each other, making it appear that the stems have grown up through them. At the shoot tips are drooping clusters of lavender blue flowers. Shearing back the old stems will promote several waves of growth and bloom. This makes a fascinating container subject.