Abelia x grandiflora, known as glossy abelia, is an ornamental shrub valued for its attractive foliage and exceptionally long flowering season.

Characteristics
A semi-evergreen shrub 1.5-3 m tall and as wide, with a rounded, densely branched habit and slender, arching branches; new growth is reddish. The leaves are small, oval and glossy dark green, turning bronze or red tones in autumn. From late spring until autumn, often up to the first frosts, it carries masses of small, fragrant, tubular white to pinkish white flowers; the red bracts persist after the petals fall.

Growing and care
Sun or partial shade and well drained soil, including clay, sandy or calcareous ground. Drought tolerant once established and tolerant of urban pollution; hardy in USDA zones 6-9. Light pruning after flowering keeps its shape and encourages denser growth; mulch the base and feed lightly in spring.

Uses
Mixed borders, informal hedges, specimen planting and containers on terraces and patios. The fragrant flowers attract bees and butterflies.