Vanilla Brandy Abelia

Vanilla Brandy Abelia (Abelia grandiflora 'Vanilla Brandy')

Vanilla Brandy Abelia is a compact, semi-evergreen shrub with a neat, mounded habit and a long summer-to-fall bloom of small white, lightly fragrant tubular flowers. Glossy foliage and rosy stems provide multi-season interest in borders, foundations, and containers.

Distinctive Features

Prolonged flowering pairs with persistent rosy calyces for color that continues after blooms fade. Dense branching and fine texture deliver a tidy look with minimal shaping.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade, with afternoon shade in hot sites to reduce leaf scorch.
• Soil: Well drained, moderately fertile soil is ideal.
• Water: Keep evenly moist during establishment; tolerates brief dry periods once established.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 6 to 9.
• Mature Size: 2 to 3 ft tall and 3 to 4 ft wide.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Bright blooms and rosy calyces create a compact highlight near entries and paths.
• Foundation Planting: Provides soft evergreen texture and extended seasonal color.
• Containers: Performs well in pots with regular water and good drainage.
• Low Hedges: Forms a tidy edging with light, periodic pruning.
• Mixed Borders: Blends easily with perennials and contrasting foliage shrubs.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water weekly the first season and during extended dry spells thereafter.
• Pruning: Lightly shape after flowering or in late winter to maintain density.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring if growth is light.
• Mulching: Maintain a 2 to 3 in mulch layer, keeping mulch off stems.
• Notes: Avoid poorly drained soils and protect from drying winter winds in colder zones.

Why Choose Vanilla Brandy Abelia?

• Extended Bloom: Flowers for months, with lasting color from rosy calyces.
• Compact Habit: Fits small spaces without frequent pruning.
• Pollinator Friendly: Tubular flowers attract bees and butterflies.
• Heat Tolerant: Handles warm exposures with adequate moisture.
• Deer Resistant: Foliage is generally avoided by deer.

For best performance, site in morning sun with well drained soil and provide even moisture through peak summer heat.