They are considered “old-fashioned” shrubs and truly the old fashioned ones were about 6 feet tall with green leaves and small flowers. Now however there are so many new cultivars. This woody shrub is available in compact sizes and in a wide spectrum of foliage color from variegated green and cream or green and yellow or even red, bronze, and orange. Sometimes the new growth is a different color than the old growth.
A member of the honeysuckle family, Caprifoliaceae, abelia has sweetly scented, funnel-shaped flowers in yellow, white or pink colors that attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and pollinators. The shrubs bloom from spring to late fall.
Abelia plants are deer resistant with minimal pest and disease issues. They are “semi evergreen,” which means they will drop leaves in areas such as ours with cold winters but will retain leaves in the south. Hardy to Zone 4, they are drought tolerant when established.
The shrubs are ideal for borders, foundations, screens, and hedges, and yes, even media strips. They are also good for erosion control on banks and slopes.
If you visit your local nursery, you can probably see them blooming. Select the type you like. You can still plant shrubs in the garden now while the soil is warm. Water well to get the plant established before winter. Check out the new abelia varieties — they have come a long way since your grandmother grew them in her garden!