Bella Donna Abelia: The Little-known Plant with Big Benefits

Are you looking for a unique and low-maintenance plant to add to your garden or landscape? Look no further than the Bella Donna Abelia! This beautiful and versatile plant is not only easy to care for but also offers numerous benefits that make it worth considering. In this article, we'll explore the history, characteristics, and benefits of the Bella Donna Abelia plant, along with tips for growing and caring for it.

What is Bella Donna Abelia?

Bella Donna Abelia (Abelia x grandiflora ‘Bella Donna’) is a hybrid plant that originated from two different species of Abelia plants: Abelia chinensis and Abelia uniflora. It is a deciduous shrub that typically grows to be about 4 to 6 feet tall and wide. Bella Donna Abelia is known for its attractive foliage, which is dark green with bronze tints in the summer and turns reddish-purple in the fall. The plant also produces fragrant white flowers in the summer and fall, which attract bees and butterflies.

The History of Bella Donna Abelia

Bella Donna Abelia was first developed by Dr. Michael Dirr, a renowned horticulturist and professor at the University of Georgia, in the late 1990s. Dr. Dirr crossed Abelia chinensis and Abelia uniflora to create a plant that combined the best traits of both species. The resulting hybrid was named ‘Bella Donna’ due to its beautiful appearance.

The Benefits of Bella Donna Abelia

Bella Donna Abelia offers a variety of benefits that make it a great choice for gardeners and landscapers. Here are some of the top benefits:

Easy to Grow and Maintain

One of the biggest benefits of Bella Donna Abelia is that it is easy to grow and maintain. The plant can thrive in a wide range of soil types and light conditions, from full sun to partial shade. It is also drought-tolerant and does not require a lot of water once established.

Attractive Foliage and Flowers

Bella Donna Abelia's foliage is one of its most attractive features. The leaves are dark green with bronze tints in the summer, and turn reddish-purple in the fall. The plant also produces fragrant white flowers in the summer and fall, which attract bees and butterflies.

Year-Round Interest

Another benefit of Bella Donna Abelia is that it provides year-round interest in the garden or landscape. In the spring and summer, the plant's foliage and flowers add color and texture to your outdoor space. In the fall, the leaves turn a beautiful shade of reddish-purple, providing a stunning backdrop for other plants. And in the winter, the bare branches of the plant offer an interesting architectural element.

Low-Maintenance

Bella Donna Abelia requires very little maintenance once established. The plant does not need to be pruned regularly, although you may need to remove any dead or damaged branches occasionally. It is also resistant to most pests and diseases, so you don't have to worry about spraying it with chemicals.

Growing and Caring for Bella Donna Abelia

Now that we've explored the benefits of Bella Donna Abelia, let's take a look at how to grow and care for this beautiful plant.

Planting Bella Donna Abelia

Bella Donna Abelia can be planted in either the spring or fall, although planting in the fall is generally preferred. Choose a location that receives full sun to partial shade and has well-draining soil. Dig a hole that is twice as wide and deep as the plant's root ball, and gently loosen the roots before placing the plant in the hole. Backfill with soil, water thoroughly, and add a layer of mulch around the base of the plant.

Watering and Fertilizing

Bella Donna Abelia is drought-tolerant once established, but it still needs regular watering during the first year after planting. Water deeply once a week, or more often during hot and dry weather. Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.

Pruning and Maintenance

Bella Donna Abelia does not need to be pruned regularly, but you may need to remove any dead or damaged branches occasionally. You can also prune the plant in the late winter or early spring to shape it or control its size.

Bella Donna Abelia FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about Bella Donna Abelia:

1. Is Bella Donna Abelia a good choice for beginners?

Yes, Bella Donna Abelia is an excellent choice for beginners. It is easy to grow and maintain, and it offers a variety of benefits that make it worth considering.

2. How tall does Bella Donna Abelia get?

Bella Donna Abelia typically grows to be about 4 to 6 feet tall and wide.

3. Does Bella Donna Abelia attract bees and butterflies?

Yes, Bella Donna Abelia produces fragrant white flowers in the summer and fall, which attract bees and butterflies.

4. Does Bella Donna Abelia require a lot of water?

No, Bella Donna Abelia is drought-tolerant once established and does not require a lot of water.

5. How often should I fertilize Bella Donna Abelia?

You should fertilize Bella Donna Abelia once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.



Bella Donna Abelia is a beautiful and versatile plant that offers numerous benefits for gardeners and landscapers. It is easy to grow and maintain, and it provides year-round interest in the garden or landscape. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced gardener, Bella Donna Abelia is definitely worth considering for your outdoor space.