Species

Abelia x grandifloraGlossy Abelia

14 other cultivars

shrub

Compact Glossy Abelia

Abelia x grandiflora 'Compacta'

The Story

Plant Bio

Abelia x grandiflora is a semi-evergreen hybrid shrub valued for its long flowering season and arching, multi-stemmed habit. The tubular flowers emerge in clusters from late spring through fall, supported by persistent, reddish-pink calyces that remain decorative after the petals drop.

'Compacta' is a dwarf selection that maintains a dense, rounded form reaching three feet tall and up to five feet wide. Its small, glossy leaves emerge with a reddish-bronze tint before maturing to a deep green.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides multi-season interest with glossy green foliage, reddish new growth, and a long display of white flowers with persistent pink calyces.

Offers high drought tolerance once established and is highly resistant to Phytophthora root rot.

Serves as an excellent nectar source for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds throughout summer and fall.

SpeciesAbelia x grandifloraGlossy Abelia

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

36"

Width

60"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low to medium

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

15-20 years

Native To

Hybrid origin (Italy)

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Late spring – Autumn

In flower about 7 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site in full sun to partial shade with moist, well-drained soil.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and of equal depth, backfilling with native soil.
Water deeply at the base immediately after planting to settle the soil around the roots.
Apply a two-inch layer of organic mulch around the root zone, keeping it clear of the main stems.

Pro Tip

Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins, as flowers form on the current season's wood.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system.
Prune selectively in late winter to preserve the natural, arching branch habit.
Apply a light, balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring if planting in poor soils.

Don't

Do not allow the soil to become waterlogged, as the roots are intolerant of standing water.
Avoid shearing the shrub into rigid geometric shapes, which ruins the natural form and reduces flowering.
Never cut back into old, leafless wood that lacks visible, living buds.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Foundation PlantingHedgeMass PlantingBorder Edging

Companion Plants

Clethra alnifolia Diervilla lonicera Salvia Echinacea

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Compact Glossy Abelia questions

What zones can Compact Glossy Abelia grow in?

Compact Glossy Abelia is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Compact Glossy Abelia deer resistant?

Yes — Compact Glossy Abelia is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Compact Glossy Abelia bloom?

Compact Glossy Abelia typically blooms in late spring through autumn. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Compact Glossy Abelia need full sun?

Compact Glossy Abelia does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Compact Glossy Abelia drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Compact Glossy Abelia handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.