Abelia x grandiflora 'Prostrata'

The prostrate abelia is an evergreen shrub in the honeysuckle family (Caprifoliaceae).  In colder climate with temperatures below 15 degrees Fahrenheit, it is semi-evergreen.  The genus was named after Dr. Clark Abel, an 18th-century naturalist and physician.  The specific epithet means “large-flowered”.  The Prostrata cultivar’s main distinction from other glossy abelias is its very low growth habit.

This low-maintenance shrub is tolerant of shade and a variety of soils but prefers a sunny location with moist, well-drained soil.   The maximum height is 2 feet and width is 5 feet.  Plant 3 to 5 feet apart.  It may die down to the ground in colder climates, but it will regrow.  Shelter from cold winter winds.  The flowers bloom on new wood. Prune if shaping is required after flowering or in late winter and early spring.  Thin the shrub if it is too dense to provide light for the interior foliage. The multi-stemmed shrub is dense, but easy to transplant. Propagate soft stem cuttings in the summer.

The terminal clusters of small prolific flowers are showy, fragrant, and bloom up to 4 months from summer into fall.  After the pinkish-white petals fall, the colorful red bracts persist through autumn.  The dark green leaves turn to a showy bronze hue in the fall.  The prostrate abelia is deer-resistant and drought-tolerant once established.

Grow it as a ground cover and on banks to control erosion.  Include it as a low hedge, mass planting, or specimen in the landscape.  Prune it to grow in a container on the patio.  Place the shrub in flower beds, pollinator gardens, next to patios, as a foundation plant or small spaces.

Insects, Pests, and Diseases:  It may be susceptible to honey fungus.  No serious pest problems or diseases.

More information on Abelia x grandiflora.