Origin
Abelia grandiflora 'Francis Mason' is a cultivar of Abelia grandiflora, a hybrid that originally comes from China. The species arose from a cross between Abelia chinensis and Abelia uniflora. 'Francis Mason' was selected for its striking foliage colour. The plant belongs to the Caprifoliaceae family.
Characteristics
Abelia grandiflora 'Francis Mason' is a semi-evergreen shrub. The leaves are glossy green with a distinct yellow margin, which is golden in spring. In summer and autumn, small, trumpet-shaped, pale pink flowers appear. The shrub typically reaches 1 to 1.5 metres in height and spread. The branches are slightly arching and elegantly shaped.
Care
This Abelia prefers a sunny or partially shaded position. The plant thrives best in well-drained, humus-rich soil. Regular, light pruning encourages shape and flowering. Abelia grandiflora 'Francis Mason' is moderately hardy and tolerates short periods of frost.