Abelia Bumblebee

Arching stems and an exceptionally long flowering season make Abelia parvifolia 'Bumblebee' a standout semi-evergreen shrub for Summer-to-Autumn colour. Emerging in early Summer, massed clusters of trumpet-shaped, soft pink blooms with pale throats open continuously right through to late Autumn. The fragrant flowers are exceptionally rich in nectar, drawing a steady stream of bees and butterflies throughout the warmer months. As the petals fall, deep bronze-pink calyces persist on the branches, extending the display well after the main flush. Its small, glossy green leaves take on attractive purple and copper tones in Autumn. Ideal for sunny borders, cottage garden schemes, or informal hedging, it thrives in a warm, sheltered spot in well-drained soil. Maintenance is straightforward—simply cut back dead or frost-damaged stems in late Spring and remove a portion of the oldest wood to promote fresh flowering growth.

Site: Sheltered
Soil: Any reasonably fertile, well drained soil. Avoid waterlogged areas
Position: Full sun or partial shade
Season of interest: Fragrant pink flowers from Summer to Autumn; decorative persistent sepals into Winter
Hardiness: -5 to -10°C - may need mulch/winter protection in colder areas
Height: 4-5' (1.2 - 1.5m) Spread: 4-5' (1.2 - 1.5m)   ~ at maturity

Image 2 by cultivar413 cropped and licensed under CC BY 2.0