Glossy Abelia
 

Mature Size, Growth, Longevity

Average mature size of 3-6' tall and wide; shorter in north, taller (up to 8') in the south. Usually dense, rounded, spreading to be wider than it is tall. Medium to fast growth rate.

Native Range

Hybrid of 2 Chinese species: Abelia chinensis × A. uniflora.

Flower and Fruit Details

Flowers white flushed with pink, trumpet-shaped, 1" long, 0.5" wide, throat 5 lobed, slightly fragrant, 2-5 together in leafy panicles at end of lateral branches, May-June. Sepals develop rose-purple tinge, persist sometimes through winter. Fruits are one-seeded, leathery achenes with no ornamental value. The plant may be essentially sterile, producing few if any fruits.

Leaf and Bark Features

Semi-Evergreen: Fall color bronze-green to bronze-red to bronze-purple with the onset of cold weather and into winter. Young bark pubescent, reddish purple to reddish brown, with a fine textured appearance. Older stems with outer bark which is split and peeling in string-like threads to expose the lighter inner bark, leaf scars are connected by a stipular line.

Culture and Care

Easily grown. Prefers acid, well-drained, moist soil. Develops chlorosis in high pH. Tolerates part shade but flowers best when in full sun. Damaged in severe winters, so plant in an area protected from winter winds. Safest in Zone 6 and warmer. No serious disease or insect problems, but winter die-back may occur at temperatures near or below 0F; leaf spots, mildew, root rots have been reported, aphids are a problem on soft, succulent growth.

Strengths, Weaknesses, Other Facts

Excellent medium-fine textural effects in all seasons; semi-evergreen; handsome in flower, requires no regular chemical inputs. 3-season interest: Spring, Summer, Fall

Suggested Uses

Use as a grouping, or mass for shrub borders, bank coverings or foundations; combines well with broadleaf evergreens; some cultivars suitable for a small-area specimen plant; can be used as hedge in south where winter die-back is minimal.

Taxa and Plants of this Species at BCA