Overview
Abelia macrotera var. macrotera is a bushy shrubs in the genus Abelia, part of the Caprifoliaceae family, with semi-evergreen foliage. Abelia macrotera var. macrotera grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, patio and container plants, mediterranean climate plants, gravel garden, low maintenance, flower borders and beds and wall side borders.
About
Abelia macrotera var. macrotera, commonly known as whorled abelia, is a semi-evergreen shrub within the Caprifoliaceae family. This bushy plant thrives in full sun and prefers a sheltered position with fertile, moist but well-drained loam soil of neutral pH. It is hardy to UK zone H5 and is suitable for south- or east-facing aspects. The genus Abelia includes deciduous and evergreen shrubs and small trees with typically funnel-shaped flowers appearing in clusters during summer and autumn, and this cultivar is valued for its spring and summer interest in cottage gardens, patios, and flower borders.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Abelia
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Abelia macrotera var. macrotera size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Shrubs
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Semi-evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Mediterranean climate plants, Gravel garden, Low Maintenance, Flower borders and beds, Wall side borders
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Abelia macrotera var. macrotera
- Propagation
- Softwood cuttings in early summer, Semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to honey fungus
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Abelia macrotera var. macrotera?
Abelia macrotera var. macrotera prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Abelia macrotera var. macrotera need?
Abelia macrotera var. macrotera grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Abelia macrotera var. macrotera hardy in the UK?
Abelia macrotera var. macrotera has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Abelia macrotera var. macrotera?
Softwood cuttings in early summer, Semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer.