Abelia

Family Caprifoliaceae. The genus includes about 30 species of deciduous and evergreen shrubs, mainly from Southeast Asia.

Tubular flowers with reflexed petal tips sit in the axils of opposite oblong leaves or are gathered in clusters at the ends of branches. They have a strong and pleasant fragrance. The calyx persists on the fruit and resembles a four-lobed fan. Large-flowered Abelias, popular in foreign horticulture, include such species as A. floribunda, A. grandiflora, A. triflora. Only one species overwinters reliably — A. coreana.

The genus Abelia includes about 30 species of hardy, delicate deciduous and evergreen shrubs or small trees with characteristic opposite, shortly petioled leaves and bell-shaped or funnel-shaped fragrant flowers on axillary or terminal flowering shoots. The fruits are small, leathery, and single-seeded. In natural conditions members of the genus reach 3–4 meters in height. The bark of the oldest specimens is light gray. Leaves are oblong-ovate, 3–6 cm long, often crenate or serrate at the margin. In early summer small pale pink, very fragrant, four-lobed flowers open on short pedicels, up to 1.5 cm long, occurring in pairs in the leaf axils. The fruitlets are about 1 cm long, oblong or curved, and one-seeded. There are no cultivars yet; the wild form is cultivated.

Growing conditions and care: Abelia does not require specific care: well-drained, fertile soil, sun or partial shade and light watering during drought — that is all it needs. Old and damaged shoots are removed after flowering. Moderate moisture is required during dry periods. Propagated by seeds, green and hardwood cuttings, but even with the use of rooting stimulants their rooting rate can be low. The shrub produces abundant root suckers and forms dense clumps. It does not need winter protection.

Uses: Abelia is grown for its beautiful fragrant flowers. It has a long flowering period. It can surround gazebos and, with its dense foliage, screen areas for evening relaxation. As specimen plants it can also be planted in groups.