Kaleidoscope Abelia

Kaleidoscope Abelia is a compact, colorful evergreen to semi-evergreen shrub for sunny borders and foundation beds. Green leaves edged in golden yellow shift toward orange and red in cool weather, while reddish stems and small white flowers add another layer of color from late spring into fall. Its low, spreading mound works well in containers, mass plantings, slopes, and pollinator-friendly landscapes. Full sun produces the strongest foliage color and flowering, though it also grows in part shade.

Plant details

• Botanical name: Abelia × grandiflora 'Kaleidoscope'
• Light: Full sun to part shade; best color and bloom in full sun
• USDA zones: 6–9
• Mature height: 2–3 ft
• Mature width: 3–4 ft
• Foliage: Evergreen to semi-evergreen in mild climates; green and gold foliage with orange-red cool-season color
• Flower or feature: Pink buds opening to small white tubular flowers
• Bloom season: Late spring through fall
• Water: Average; drought tolerant once established; well-drained soil
• Growth habit: Compact, dense, low and mounding
• Landscape uses: Foundation planting, low hedge, border, container, mass planting, slope, pollinator garden
• Deer tolerance: Generally deer resistant; not deer-proof

South Carolina garden note: Well suited to Zone 8b, where it may hold foliage through much of winter. Full sun gives the richest color when moisture is adequate.

Plant size and performance vary with climate, soil, pruning and care. Availability changes with nursery inventory.