Abelia Summer Snow

Common Name:
Summer Snow gardenia

Description:
Abelia ‘Summer Snow’ appears to be commonly sold under an incorrect or shortened trade name, and the plant most consistently associated with ‘Summer Snow’ is actually Gardenia jasminoides ‘Summer Snow’. This evergreen shrub is prized for its glossy dark green foliage and large, highly fragrant white double flowers that create a lush, elegant display from late spring through summer, and often into early autumn in favourable conditions. It has a dense, rounded to upright habit and is best suited to a warm, sheltered position in Melbourne with morning sun or part shade and rich, well-drained, slightly acidic soil. It performs beautifully in decorative pots, garden borders, entry plantings and low formal hedging where its perfume can be appreciated. Regular moisture, mulch and protection from harsh afternoon sun or cold winds will help it thrive.

Form:
• Shrub - Medium

Mature Size:
• Height: 1.2–1.5 m
• Width: 1.2–1.5 m

Aspect:
• Part Shade
• Full Sun

Flowering:
• Flowers in Spring
• Flowers in Summer
• Flowers in Autumn

Flower Colour:
• White
• Creamy white as blooms age

Key Attributes:
• Suitable for Pots
• Disease Resistant
• Scented flowers
• Bee Attracting
• Perennial
• Suitable for Hedging
• Evergreen
• Suitable for Formal Gardens
• Suitable for Entry Planting
• Excellent for Fragrant Gardens
• Requires acidic, well-drained soil for best performance

Toxicity:
May be mildly toxic if ingested by pets or humans and may cause gastrointestinal upset. Best planted with care around curious pets and small children.

Companion Plants:
• Azalea
• Camellia
• Gardenia radicans
• Clivia
• Liriope
• Daphne
• Hellebore
• Japanese box