Abelia

Linnaea × grandiflora is a hybrid plant created from a cross between the species L. chinensis and L. uniflora, all of which have been reclassified. Historically they were included in the genus Abelia and this name is still commonly used. They are cultivated for their attractive foliage and profusion of flowers. They are popular as fillers in flower arranging or as hedges in gardens where they are often clipped into shapes. This medium-sized semi-evergreen shrub has arching branches with small glossy oval leaves. Clusters of small, lightly fragrant, tubular, pale pink flowers appear for a long period from mid-summer and early autumn. Good autumn colour, leaves turn to a bronze tone which contrasts nicely with the flowers.