Abelia Grandiflora Edward Goucher

Description

Abelia Grandiflora Edward Goucher is a medium-sized, deciduous shrub that belongs to the honeysuckle family. It is a hybrid plant, produced by crossing Abelia chinensis with Abelia uniflora. It is known for its stunning clusters of pinkish-white, tubular flowers that bloom continuously from late spring until the first frost. The flowers are fragrant and attract butterflies and bees. The plant also has glossy, dark green leaves that turn bronze in the fall.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Abelia Grandiflora Edward Goucher grows up to 6 feet tall and 5 feet wide. It has an upright, arching habit with slender, reddish-brown stems. The leaves are glossy and dark green, ovate to oblong, and grow up to 2 inches long. In the fall, the leaves turn bronze, adding to the plant’s ornamental value. The flowers are pinkish-white, tubular, and grow in clusters that are 1-2 inches long. The plant blooms heavily in late spring and sporadically throughout the summer and fall.

Care Guide

Abelia Grandiflora Edward Goucher is easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance. Here are some care tips:

Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during the first growing season. Provide enough water to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged.

Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in early spring and mid-summer with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates.

Soil: Abelia Grandiflora Edward Goucher prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil with a pH of 6.0-6.5. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including loam, sandy, or clay soils.

Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may not bloom as heavily.

Hardiness Zones: Abelia Grandiflora Edward Goucher is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Abelia Grandiflora Edward Goucher is generally free of pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, and aphids. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. The plant may also be prone to leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot if grown in poorly-drained soil.

Habitat

Abelia Grandiflora Edward Goucher is native to China and was introduced to the United States in the mid-1800s. It is commonly grown in gardens and landscapes as an ornamental shrub. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of soil types. It is also drought-tolerant once established.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I prune Abelia Grandiflora Edward Goucher?

A: Prune the plant in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches. You can also shape the plant at this time by pruning back any overgrown or straggly branches.

Q: Can Abelia Grandiflora Edward Goucher be grown in containers?

A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system. Use a well-draining potting mix and water the plant regularly.

Q: What is the best way to propagate Abelia Grandiflora Edward Goucher?

A: The plant can be propagated by taking softwood cuttings in the summer or hardwood cuttings in the fall. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and provide bright, indirect light until the cuttings root.

Q: Does Abelia Grandiflora Edward Goucher attract wildlife?

A: Yes, the plant’s fragrant flowers attract butterflies and bees, making it a great choice for pollinator gardens.

Related Plants

• Abelia Chinensis
• Abelia Floribunda
• Abelia Grandiflora
• Abelia Mosanensis

References

• “Abelia Grandiflora Edward Goucher.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c354.
• “Abelia Grandiflora Edward Goucher.” Plant Delights Nursery, www.plantdelights.com/products/abelia-grandiflora-edward-goucher.
• “Abelia Grandiflora Edward Goucher.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/abelia-grandiflora-edward-goucher-3269259.