Abelia - Zabelia biflora (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Abelia

Abelia (Zabelia biflora) is a plant species often cultivated in gardens. It is a lesser well known species in the genus Zabelia, which contains other flowering species. This species grows best in sun to partial shade conditions.

Scientific classification

Species

Abelia (Zabelia biflora)

Honeysuckles, moschatels and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

Summer, Fall

Harvest Time

1 m to 6 m

Plant Height

1.5 m to 2.5 m

Spread

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Abelia

Distribution of Abelia

Distribution Map

Abelia is a plant native to temperate regions of the northeastern Eurasian continent, including the far eastern territories. It thrives in mixed forest zones and rocky slopes. In cultivation, abelia has adapted to various temperate climates, allowing it to be introduced and grown in a wider range of botanical gardens and horticultural contexts across the globe.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

The ornamental shrub abelia blooms plentiful enough to be adored for its beauty and is hardy enough to be used in the toughest of areas (including parking lots!). Because of its density and toughness, abelia is perfect for use as hedging or a windbreak, especially in wildlife and cottage gardens.

Interesting Facts

With dozens of selected cultivars, abelia is a garden-worthy flowering shrub. The flowers of abelia are showy and attractive, growing on fountain-like branches. Their fragrance attracts different types of insects.

Name Story

Abelia: Zabelia biflora used to belong to the formerly recognized genus called Abelia and it's still widely known by its former name. The name abelia is now used more in a horticultural sense, and it refers to a group of plants that belong to the genera Linnaea, Vesalea, Zabelia, etc.

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Care Guide for Abelia

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Adapted from environments with intermittent moisture, abelia showcases moderate drought tolerance and prefers watering every 2-3 weeks. As an ornamental outdoor plant, it benefits from mulching to retain soil moisture and protect against temperature fluctuations, especially in areas with inconsistent rainfall.

Fertilize: Fertilize abelia in spring with a balanced, slow-release 2:1:1 NPK fertilizer, applying once yearly. Consider a second application in mid-summer. Reduce fertilizer in fall. Always water well after fertilization to enhance nutrient absorption, avoiding over-fertilization to prevent harm to abelia.

Pruning: Abelia features delicate flowers and a shrub-like form; prune in late spring by removing dead branches and thinning overcrowded areas. This enhances air circulation and new growth. Pruning post-bloom maintains vigor, supports flowering, and ensures a tidy appearance.

Propagation: Abelia is a resilient shrub ideal for gardens. Propagate through healthy semi-hardwood cuttings (4-6 inches), removing lower leaves and using rooting hormone. Plant in well-draining soil, maintain moisture, and transplant carefully once roots develop, avoiding disturbance of the root system.

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