Abelia uniflora, commonly known as Glossy Abelia, is a semi-deciduous shrub native to the forest margins and open thickets of China. It typically grows to a height of 2 meters (7 feet) and spreads to 3 meters (10 feet) wide. The plant features arching branches with glossy, dark green leaves that may turn purplish in winter in colder climates. From late summer to autumn, it produces clusters of fragrant, tubular pink flowers with prominent red calyces, which are particularly attractive to pollinators.

Glossy Abelia is appreciated for its extended blooming period and the lustrous sheen of its foliage, making it a favored choice for ornamental garden shrubs. It is often used in border planting, as a specimen, or for hedging in sheltered, south-facing gardens. While it thrives in full sun or part shade, it requires medium water and well-drained soil to flourish. Although generally low-maintenance, it may benefit from pruning to maintain shape and encourage flowering. It is relatively pest and disease-free but can be susceptible to scale insects and leaf spot diseases.CC BY-SA 4.0