Abelia

Abelia x grandiflora and others

It is sometimes clipped in an attempt to form a dense hedge or ball shapes, but the natural habit of long arching stems on the larger forms don't really lend themselves to this treatment. If space is available, cane-like growth can be managed in a more naturalistic shape than the shearing they are more usually subjected to.

Try to plant the larger forms where you can allow the plant do develop its natural shape. Selectively thin the bush by cutting out old canes near the base from time to time as necessary to maintain vigour and maintain a clean, attractive form.

Abelia was discussed in detail in the 01-10-2021 edition of Get Results Gardening, a weekly email publication for Australian gardeners, especially those in the tropical, subtropical and warm temperate parts of the country. Free trials available for Australian residents. To learn more, go to calyx.com.au/getresultsgardening.html or simply click on the banner below _☟.

Abelias In Queensland

Abelia x grandiflora

This group originated from a cross between Abelia chinensis with A. uniflora around the turn of the 20th century. Since then a number of selections with coloured foliage or dwarf habit have been introduced into horticulture. Cultivars widely available in Queensland include:

Abelia x grandiflora 'Francis Mason' - yellow and green variegated foliage

Abelia x grandiflora 'Nana' - a dwarf form with green foliage

Abelia x grandiflora 'Kaleidoscope' - A relatively recent introduction which is becoming very popular. It has dwarf habit with colorful variegated foliage that varies through the seasons. It arose as a sport of Abelia 'Little Richard' in the US.

Abelia schumannii

Abelia schumannii, with pink flowers, is sometimes offered for sale in Queensland, but the lack of widespread cultivation suggests it is not well adapted to the subtropics

Abelias in the Landscape

Pictures to help you see what the plants look like, suitable locations and different pruning approaches. Photographs taken in Brisbane.