Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Veronica odora 'New Zealand Gold'
New Zealand Gold Boxwood Hebe
- Family
- Plantaginaceae
- Height
- 2 to 3 feet
- Width
- 2 to 3 feet
- Flower color
- Small pale lavender to soft violet flowers held above the foliage
- Foliage color
- Bright golden yellow foliage with fine texture and a low spreading habit
- Bloom time
- Late spring to summer
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Moderate; prefers well drained soil and consistent moisture
- Maintenance
- Low; trim lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage dense growth
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 8 to 10
- Wildlife
- Pollinators attracted to nectar rich flowers
About this plant
Veronica odora 'New Zealand Gold' produces small, pale lavender to soft lilac flowers in late spring to early summer, held just above the foliage in delicate clusters. Tiny, rounded leaves are bright golden-yellow, closely spaced along the stems to form a dense, cushion-like mat with a fine, textured surface. The foliage maintains its warm color through the season, while the flowers emerge lightly above the leaves, adding subtle contrast.
Originating from a species native to New Zealand, this cultivar reflects selection for luminous foliage and compact growth. It is well suited to rock gardens, edging, containers, and trough plantings, where its evergreen presence and soft bloom provide year-round structure and seasonal detail.
Companion plants
Yarrow · Oregon grape · Coreopsis · Blanket flower · Phlox · Bulgarian honey garlic
Design tip
Brighten visually quiet areas with New Zealand Gold’s luminous evergreen foliage. Its dense, cushion-like habit creates a concentrated pool of color at ground level, while the fine texture keeps the golden mass from appearing heavy or overly dominant.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Washington Park Arboretum.
