A colorful, fragrant choice for the late spring/early summer garden, Abelia mosanensis packs its arching branches with pink buds that open into white-petalled trumpets with a sweet, lilac scent. In fall, its glossy foliage turns vibrant orange red. A medium-size shrub, it is hardier than many other Abelia species.
Abelia is a genus in the Honeysuckle family that includes about 15-30 species native to eastern Asia and Mexico. Most are attractive, twiggy, evergreen or deciduous shrubs carrying a fragrant profusion of small tubular flowers, usually in summer and fall. Their colorful, leafy calyces often add to the display. Best in full sun or partial shade and fertile, well-drained soil; little pruning is needed.
