Ruby Anniversary Abelia

## Landscape character Ruby Anniversary® abelia (*Abelia chinensis* 'Keiser') combines ruby-red young leaves with dark green summer foliage and fragrant white flowers. Its arching branches make a relaxed mound rather than a rigid, formal shape. Flowers develop on new growth from summer into fall, attracting butterflies and hummingbirds when many spring shrubs have finished blooming. Use it toward the middle or back of a mixed border, in a loose hedge, or near a patio where the fragrance can be appreciated. Allow roughly **4–6 feet tall and 4–5 feet wide** at maturity; some suppliers list a broader spread. Give its branches room to expand so it needs less trimming. It is generally deciduous, although Chinese abelia can hold some foliage in warm climates. Avoid relying on it for a year-round privacy barrier in colder areas. ## Growing conditions The cultivar is listed for **USDA zones 5–9**. Full sun encourages the strongest flowering; partial sun is also suitable. Choose freely draining soil and water regularly while the root system develops. Established plants tolerate some drought, but severe dryness can reduce flowering. Deer and rabbit resistance is useful, although hungry animals may still browse plants. Availability is limited: [Spring Meadow has retired the variety](https://springmeadownursery.com/plantfinder/ruby-anniversary-00120), while regional nursery inventories still list it. Confirm stock before specifying large quantities. See [Proven Winners' cultivar reference](https://www.provenwinners.com/plants/abelia/ruby-anniversary-abelia-chinensis) and [NC State's Chinese abelia guidance](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/abelia-chinensis/) for further details. ## Maintenance **Low maintenance** when given adequate space. Prune for shape in late winter or early spring, before vigorous new growth; flowers form on the season's new shoots. Remove dead or damaged branches as needed. Deadheading is unnecessary. Check soil moisture during establishment and prolonged dry weather, and avoid keeping the roots waterlogged. Chinese abelia has few serious pest or disease problems, so routine observation is generally more useful than preventative spraying.