Chinese abelia - Abelia chinensis (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Chinese abelia

Chinese abelia (Abelia chinensis) is a deciduous shrub that will grow from 1.5 to 2.5 m tall. It blooms from summer to fall with fragrant showy white tubular flowers that attract butterflies. Thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers acidic moist well-drained soil. It is native to China.

Scientific classification

Species

Chinese abelia (Abelia chinensis)

Honeysuckles, moschatels and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

2.5 cm

Flower Size

White, Pink

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Chinese abelia

Distribution of Chinese abelia

Distribution Map

Chinese abelia is a plant native to East Asia, thriving in various temperate regions of the continent. It has been introduced and naturalized in parts of South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. Chinese abelia is also cultivated for ornamental purposes, indicating a more widespread appreciation and adaptation beyond its original range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Cultivated land

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Chinese abelia is a rounded shrub with arching branches that is well known for attracting butterflies. It is valued ornamentally for its blossoms and arching branches, which droop with the weight of their blossoms in a manner that resembles a weeping species. In gardens, chinese abelia is often planted in groups to form a living screen or hedge.

Interesting Facts

Chinese abelia is a very hardy plant. It adapts well in many types of soil (including salty soil) and partial or full sunlight. Extremes of cold can damage the chinese abelia's extremities, but usually does not kill the plant outright. It is also not targeted by wildlife like rabbits and deer.

Name Story

Chinese abelia: As the name indicates, chinese abelia comes originally from East Asia. The name Abelia was given in honor of Dr. Clarke Abel, a British physician and naturalist who traveled to China in the early 19th century. He collected many seed and plant samples during that expedition.

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Care Guide for Chinese abelia

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Chinese abelia prefers moderate humidity and thrives with consistent soil moisture without waterlogging. Weekly watering is ideal. As an outdoor plant in temperate zones, mulching is beneficial for moisture retention and temperature regulation, essential for its growth cycle.

Fertilize: Chinese abelia thrives with balanced nutrition fertilizers for optimal growth. Apply slow-release fertilizer in spring, using lighter doses every 4-6 weeks until late summer. Monitor soil fertility and adjust feeding in containers. Water well after fertilizing to enhance nutrient absorption while avoiding over-fertilization.

Pruning: Chinese abelia is a deciduous shrub featuring fragrant flowers and dense foliage. Prune in early spring, removing dead branches for health and shape. Light trimming boosts blooms, while regular pruning improves air circulation, sunlight exposure, and overall vigor, as chinese abelia flowers on new wood.

Propagation: To propagate chinese abelia, take semi-hardwood cuttings (10-15 cm) using a clean tool. Applying rooting hormone aids root development. Plant in well-draining soil and maintain moderate moisture. Provide a warm, indirect light environment, and monitor for root formation to indicate successful propagation.

Repotting: Repot 'chinese abelia' every 2-3 years in spring, using a slightly larger, well-draining pot. After repotting, provide bright indirect light and consistent watering for recovery. Remember, patience is essential as 'chinese abelia' re-establishes itself.

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