Chinese Abelia Abelia chinensis

 Chinese Abelia is a deciduous shrub in the honeysuckle family (Caprifoliaceae). In warmer climates, the multi-stemmed shrub is semi-evergreen.  The shrub is native to southeastern China and found in the lower alpine areas up to 6000’.  The genus was named after Dr. Clark Abel, an 18th-century naturalist and physician.  The specific epithet refers to China as the origin.

The easy to grow shrub prefers moist, acidic, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade.  If grown outside the specified plant zone in a protected area, it will die back but may grow new shoots the following spring in the colder climate.  The arching branches can be 5-8’ tall and 3-5’ wide. The flowers bloom on new wood, so prune to shape the shrub in early spring.  Propagate by softwood cuttings in early summer or semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer.

The flowers bloom for an extended time from early summer to fall.  The prolific small white flowers are very fragrant and appear as clusters on the stem end.  It is considered the most aromatic of all the Abelia species. When the flowers drop, the sepals turn a showy rosy mauve and persist through the fall.  The shrub is heat, humidity, deer, and rabbit tolerant.  Once established, it is drought tolerant.  This plant was difficult to find commercially after it was used to create the popular Glossy Abelia.  The Chinese Abelia is gaining favor again as a nectar source for butterflies.

Plant it as a specimen or as mass planting in a border, foundation or a pollinator garden.  Place it near a patio or walkway to enjoy the fragrant blooms.  The arching branches can be pruned to create a hedge.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  No serious insect or disease problems.  Caterpillars may eat the foliage, but does not significantly change the appearance.