Abelia x grandiflora 'Goldsport'

Description: A new introduction. This semi-evergreen shrub has an arching growth habit. The foliage is green with a central spot of gold markings on each leaf, the extent of yellow varying between leaves. The soft pink flowers are lightly fragrant and bloom over a long period. In addition showy soft pink bracts add interest through to late autumn. Abelia is fairly slow growing and so is ideal for small gardens.

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

Height/Spread: Reaches 1.2 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.

Abelia grandiflora is a hybrid of two Chinese species, A. chinensis pollinated by A. uniflora A. 'Gold Spot' is a sport of A. x grandiflora 'Francis Mason'