White Forsythia, Korean Abelialeaf
 

Mature Size, Growth, Longevity

Average mature size of 3-5' tall and 3-4' wide. Slow to fast, will vary depending on situation.

Native Range

Central Korea. Introduced 1924.

Flower and Fruit Details

Flowers are perfect, white or faintly tinged pink, 4-petaled, 0.375 to 0.625" across, fragrant, borne in 0.5 to 1.5" long auxiliary racemes at end of shoots in March-April before the leaves. Fruits are two-celled, compressed, rounded capsules, winged all around. Similar to an elm fruit, not ornamental.

Leaf and Bark Features

Leaves medium to dark green. No significant change in fall, although muted yellow-brown to mute purple have developed on occasion.

Culture and Care

Easily transplanted. Proper sitting is important, prefers well-drained organic soil, full sun to part shade, pH adaptable. Renew frequently with a heavy rejuvination pruning immediately after flowering. Zones (4)5-8. No serious disease or insect problems.

Strengths, Weaknesses, Other Facts

Can become overgrown if not pruned regularly.

Suggested Uses

Early spring color makes it a great companion to forsythia; best if set off by a dark green background.

Taxa and Plants of this Species at BCA