it could be one of several. first thought was a penstemon, then I thought a Gaura, then sweet William. in short I suppose I'm saying I don't know. :o)

has it flowered yet? if so what did they look like/colour?

A friend sent the picture SBG, so I am none the wiser. Will try to find out.

?Penstemon Husker Red?

What about a HEBE?

Looks like penstemon to me, it should be flowering now if it is.

My first thought was that it looks similar in habit and leaf shape as a Parahebe that I have called Snow Clouds which is covered in small white flowers 'tho mine has green leaves.

Don't think its P. Huskers Red because that is very upright and about 1 metre high with white flowers. Could be a Hebe but the growth pattern doesn't look right. Whatever it is - it looks amazing

Hi, have a look at Parahebe catarractae, Derek.

it doesn't look like my Parahebe though as it is all green except for the very early leaves.

Thanks for all your suggestions. But still uncertain.