How to grow abelia – for a tough yet pretty flowering shrub that will thrive in darker borders and shady yards

I first grew abelia when working as a gardener on a private estate in Pienza, Tuscany. There were several abelia shrubs growing happily under a spreading oak tree, alongside pink clerodendrum and oak-leaved hydrangeas. In the dappled light of the oak, these three flowering shrubs thrived with relatively little care (which I appreciated).

Those abelias barely got watered, stayed evergreen through frozen winters and bloomed for long spells in spring and early summer. In memory, they always looked good, despite the often challenging growing conditions.

So, if you are struggling with a darker border or a partially shaded corner, abelia is, in my opinion, one of the best flowering shrubs to consider. Here’s everything I know about how to grow abelia, including tips on planting, soil and fertilizing.

How to grow abelia

Abelia spp. are native to China, Taiwan and Vietnam. There are currently only six species, although the one I have experience growing is the glossy abelia, or Abelia x grandiflora, which I can highly recommend if you are seeking a tough but beautiful shrub that thrives in darker spots.

Live glossy abelia shrubs can be ordered now via Amazon.

Growing habits of abelia

Abelia is an understated shrub. It might not be the biggest (Abelia x grandiflora reaches no more than 8 to 10 feet), but those small pale pink or soft white tubular flowers are quite something when seen in a partially shaded spot – or when grown as part of white garden ideas.

Hardiness will be specific depending on the exact variety, but most Abelia spp. are evergreen down to zone 8. If you are in a cooler spot, such as zone 6, grow one of the tougher varieties, such as ‘Edward Goucher', which is seen in the image below.

In terms of shape, they naturally want to arch, with a tendency to grow in a weeping habit. So, give yours a little room, and it’ll mound out into a soft, rounded form, making it ideal for the middle or back of borders. I’ve seen it used as an informal hedge, too.

In terms of care, abelias aren't really very fussy. I have found they tolerate most soils, as long as they’re not soggy, and can be grown in most borders, so long as they enjoy a few hours of dappled light. While they will grow in a full-shade spot, chances are they won't flower and growth will be leggy.

For an unusual variety, try this Abelia × grandiflora 'Kaleidoscope', with live plants available now via Walmart, which has dramatic foliage, starting yellow and green in spring before deepening in summer and fall.

Care guide for abelia

Soil: While these shrubs are simple to grow, they do best in fertile, well-draining soil. In the season before you plant, you can combine some mulch with your borders (a good two-inch layer or so), which will help to give your plants the best start by improving the quality of the soil.

Light: Abelias are some of the best shrubs for shade, and I have seen them thrive with relatively little sunshine. A partially shaded spot with even two or three hours of sun will be fine. However, if you are keen to enjoy dramatic foliage, vibrant displays tend to occur in shrubs that are planted in full sun, just watch for leaf scorch in hotter, warmer locations.

Watering: In my experience, abelia shrubs are pretty drought-tolerant once established, although they might need a little help during the first year or two. In addition, deep watering every few days during the hotter summer months is a good idea, particularly if you are growing in containers.

Fertilizing: Mulching is a good idea for your abelia shrubs, as they do well with a rich, fertile soil. Doing so yearly should remove any need to feed. If you are keen to give your shrubs a boost, however, an annual all-purpose feed applied once in spring should do the job.

Pruning: There is no need for deadheading when it comes to abelia shrubs. However, I have found that a light trim in the off-season can help to keep shrubs looking tight and compact. In terms of when to prune abelia, this is best done in late winter or early spring to avoid snipping off any stems yet to bloom.

Toxicity: These shrubs are not considered toxic for either humans or pets.

FAQs

Can I grow abelia in pots?

Yes, you can grow abelia in pots. One tip from me would be to choose a dwarf variety, such as ‘Kaleidoscope’, which doesn't tend to grow any taller than four or five feet. Your pot-grown shrub will need to be watered regularly during spring and summer, as containers can dry out quickly when the mercury rises.

If you fancy trying your hand at some propagation, you can take softwood abelia cuttings in early summer or hardwood cuttings in late summer.

To improve your propagation success rate, be sure to select healthy stems for cuttings and use a potting soil that has adequate drainage.

For more planting inspiration, see our guide on the easiest evergreen shrubs to add to your collection this year.

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