Several new, compact forms of glossy abelia are becoming very popular. ‘Kaleidoscope’ grows 2-3’ high and slightly wider. In spring leaves appear on bright red stems with lime green centers and bright yellow edges, but variegation does not scorch or burn in hot weather and in fall color deepens to shades of orange and fiery red. Soft pink flower buds open to white in late spring. ‘Little Richard’ is 3’x3’, evergreen, with vivid green leaves in summer, taking on a tangerine-pink color in fall; white flowers bloom from summer to first frost. ‘Rose Creek’ grows 2-3’ high and 3-4’ wide; is evergreen, with crimson stems. New leaves have a pinkish cast, maturing to lustrous dark green, and turn purple in cold weather. Small white flowers are surrounded by persistent rosy pink sepals. Use these abelias in containers, as formal or informal hedges, accent plants, in mass plantings, or in foundation plantings under windows. Abelias also attract hummingbirds and butterflies to the garden.

Exposure: Sun to part shade
Soil: Moist, well-drained, acidic
Hardiness: USDA Zone 6-9, evergreen in 7 and warmer