The Beauty and Benefits of Edward Goucher Abelia Plant

If you're looking for a beautiful and easy-to-maintain plant to add to your garden, the Edward Goucher Abelia plant is an excellent choice. This plant with its pink flowers and glossy leaves is one of the most popular varieties of abelia plants. In this blog post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Edward Goucher Abelia plant, including its history, characteristics, care, and benefits.

A Brief History of Edward Goucher Abelia Plant

The Edward Goucher Abelia plant was named after French botanist Clarke Abel's friend, Edward Goucher. The plant was discovered in China in the mid-1800s by Robert Fortune, a Scottish horticulturist who introduced many new and exotic species of plants to the Western world. The Edward Goucher Abelia plant has since become a staple in gardens across the United States, Europe, and Asia.

Characteristics of Edward Goucher Abelia Plant

The Edward Goucher Abelia plant is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to six feet tall and six feet wide. Its foliage is dark green, shiny, and oval-shaped, with a pointed tip. The plant produces fragrant, funnel-shaped pink flowers that bloom from late spring to early fall. The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making it an excellent plant for pollinators.

Leaves

The leaves of the Edward Goucher Abelia plant are dark green and glossy, measuring two to three inches long and one to two inches wide. They are oval-shaped with a pointed tip and slightly serrated edges. The leaves turn bronze or purple in the fall, adding to the plant's beauty during the changing season.

Flowers

The flowers of the Edward Goucher Abelia plant are fragrant and funnel-shaped, measuring one inch long and half an inch wide. They bloom from late spring to early fall and come in shades of pink. The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making it a great addition to pollinator gardens.

Care for Edward Goucher Abelia Plant

The Edward Goucher Abelia plant is easy to care for and maintain. Below are some tips on how to keep your plant healthy and happy:

Planting and Soil

The Edward Goucher Abelia plant grows well in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers full sun to partial shade but can also tolerate full shade. Plant the shrub in the spring or fall, making sure to dig a hole twice as wide and deep as the root ball. After planting, water the shrub thoroughly and mulch around the base to retain moisture.

Watering

The Edward Goucher Abelia plant needs regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Water the shrub deeply once a week, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overhead watering, as this can lead to fungal diseases.

Pruning

The Edward Goucher Abelia plant benefits from pruning in late winter or early spring. Prune back old or damaged branches, shaping the plant into a compact form. Regular pruning will help promote new growth and keep the plant looking tidy.

Fertilizing

Fertilize the Edward Goucher Abelia plant in early spring with a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 formula. Apply the fertilizer according to the instructions on the label, making sure not to over-fertilize.

Benefits of Edward Goucher Abelia Plant

The Edward Goucher Abelia plant offers several benefits, including:

Attracting Pollinators

The flowers of the Edward Goucher Abelia plant attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making it an excellent choice for pollinator gardens.

Low Maintenance

The Edward Goucher Abelia plant is easy to care for and maintain, requiring only regular watering and occasional pruning.

Seasonal Interest

The Edward Goucher Abelia plant adds interest to your garden throughout the year, with its glossy leaves and fragrant pink flowers in the spring and summer, and its bronze or purple foliage in the fall.

Versatility

The Edward Goucher Abelia plant can be used in a variety of garden settings, including hedges, borders, mass plantings, and containers.

FAQs about Edward Goucher Abelia Plant

1. Can the Edward Goucher Abelia plant tolerate drought?

Yes, the Edward Goucher Abelia plant can tolerate short periods of drought, but it prefers regular watering to thrive.

2. How often should I fertilize my Edward Goucher Abelia plant?

Fertilize the Edward Goucher Abelia plant once a year in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.

3. Can I grow the Edward Goucher Abelia plant in containers?

Yes, the Edward Goucher Abelia plant can be grown in containers, but make sure to choose a large pot and use well-draining soil.

4. Is the Edward Goucher Abelia plant deer-resistant?

No, the Edward Goucher Abelia plant is not deer-resistant and may be eaten by deer if they are present in your area.

5. How often should I prune my Edward Goucher Abelia plant?

Prune your Edward Goucher Abelia plant once a year in late winter or early spring to promote new growth and keep the plant looking tidy.


The Edward Goucher Abelia plant is an attractive and low-maintenance shrub that offers many benefits to gardeners, from attracting pollinators to adding seasonal interest. With proper care and maintenance, this beautiful plant can thrive in a variety of garden settings. So why not add an Edward Goucher Abelia plant to your garden today?