Abelia x grandiflora 'Kaleidoscope'

Description: A good new variety with a more compact, rounded habit than most Abelias and the semi-evergreen foliage remains late into the winter. The arching branches are covered in glossy, yellow and green variegated leaves turning shades of orange and red in autumn. White star-shaped flower are produced in great numbers from July to September. In addition showy soft pink bracts add interest through to late autumn. 

Climate/Position: Thrives in full sun but also suited to partial shade. Protect from cold winter winds.

Height/Spread: Reaches 1 metre x 1.2 metre and so remaining smaller than many Abelia.

Soil Requirements: Suitable for any soil type. Prefers moist, well-drained site but is tolerant of drought.

Pruning: If pruning is required or to rejuvenate old plants and encourage flowering then cut out a number of the oldest twiggy shoots at ground level in spring. Tips of shoots may suffer die back in the coldest winters and therefore it may be desirable to trim these dead shoots back to growing points in late spring.

Special Requirements: A sheltered site or wall protection is preferred in colder areas.

Additional Interest: Plant Breeders Rights apply (PBR).

Abelia grandiflora is itself a hybrid of two Chinese species, A. chinensis pollinated by A. uniflora.  Abelia × grandiflora 'Kaleidoscope' is a sport of A. × grandiflora