Family: Caprifoliaceae
Abelia × grandiflora (glossy abelia) is a hybrid shrub widely grown as an ornamental for its glossy evergreen leaves, arching form, and clusters of fragrant, tubular flowers that attract pollinators. Originating as a cross between Abelia chinensis and Abelia uniflora, this plant is commonly cultivated in gardens and landscapes across the United States, Europe, Africa, and Asia. It is valued for being hardy, drought-tolerant once established, and relatively low-maintenance, offering year-round interest with flowers and reddish foliage in cooler seasons.
Despite its popularity in horticulture, Abelia × grandiflora is not known to be invasive or problematic in Hawaiʻi or elsewhere. It has only been reported as weakly naturalized in a few parts of the southeastern United States, but it does not spread aggressively or threaten native ecosystems. Because it remains well-behaved outside of cultivation, glossy abelia is considered a pono choice for planting in Hawaiʻi landscapes where a resilient, ornamental shrub is desired.
High Risk Traits:
- Broad climate suitability (hardiness zones 5B–9A; tolerant of subtropical/warm temperate climates).
- Shade tolerant at some stages of life cycle.
- Tolerates a wide range of soil conditions (loamy, sandy, clay, acidic to slightly alkaline, even some salt tolerance).
- Can resprout after damage (cut back or frost-killed stems will regenerate).
Low Risk Traits:
- Artificial hybrid known only in cultivation; not naturally occurring.
- Not naturalized anywhere; no evidence of weedy behavior.
- No viable seed production; essentially sterile.
- No evidence of spread by animals, wind, or water.
- Propagated only intentionally by people (cuttings).
- Not toxic to humans or animals; little to no allergy potential.
- Does not form dense thickets, climb, or smother other plants.
- Not a host for recognized pests or pathogens of concern.
- Not reported as an agricultural, forestry, or environmental weed.
- Controlled easily by cultivation (e.g., pruning; shearing reduces vigor).