Years ago Abelia grandiflora was held with the lowest of regard.  The plant would grow on a polished doorknob and was practically regarded as a reclamation plant for strip mines.  Indeed, Abelia adorns many local median strips which boast hardships such as no watering regiment, high pollution, noise, and high temperatures.  As my 10th grade English teacher would haughtily state, “The nerve, the unmitigated gall” ... in this case, regarding the planting of Abelia anywhere.  In her case, well, I haven't the time.

    Common Abelia grandiflora is a deciduous plant sporting glossy leaves and dainty flowers.  The primary objection is its massive size and “Plain Jane” greenery.  It's just your average bush.  The upside is that the plant has no pests and grows just about anywhere, given enough sun.

    As of late, the plant breeders have come up with more forms of this generally ignored plant which are more compact and deviate from the traditional white blossom.

    The pink from of Abelia is “Edward Goucher“, named after Edward Goucher, I presume.  This plant still grows to be rather massive, but has pink blooms.  Other Abelia  such as “Little Richard” and “Confetti” are smaller in size, lending themselves to small scale, suburban landscapes.

    The glossy foliage of any Abelia is quite striking and requires a revisit from anyone who is looking for maintenance free landscaping.  It is fair to say that I like this plant.  I always did.