Two Looks, One Plant!
Halloween is right around the corner, bringing with it a night of candy, spooky decorations, and, of course, costumes! From store-bought to self-made, people of all ages spend the holiday transforming into fun characters, scary creatures, and everything in between. Similarly, our gardens transform throughout the year, creating new atmospheres to enjoy each season.
This week, I am excited to introduce you to one of our newest varieties, a plant that embodies this idea entirely: Sweet Emotion Blaze® abelia (Abelia mosanensis)! This striking shrub changes from spring to fall, presenting two very distinct looks, both of which ensure your garden stays interesting from start to finish.
Sweet Emotion Blaze abelia first appears whimsical and soft, with lush green foliage and an abundance of petite pink blooms. Its spring flowers add a lovely fragrance to the air and attract pollinators throughout the season.
In autumn, you can enjoy a completely new look, one that is fiery and bold. The foliage blazes in shades of yellow, orange, and red, perfect for brightening up a dulling landscape.
For those of you familiar with Proven Winners ColorChoice varieties, Sweet Emotion Blaze is replacing the original Sweet Emotion® abelia. That is in part because of its more colorful fall foliage, as well as its tidier and more compact habit, which makes for an improved garden presence. At 5-6′ tall and 4-5′ wide, it works wonderfully as a specimen, in a border, or as a foundation plant.
Caring for Sweet Emotion Blaze® Abelia
Sweet Emotion Blaze abelia is suited to USDA zones 4-8. It flowers best in full sun but will grow just fine in part sun as well. Considered to be quite adaptable, it can be planted in any average, well-draining soil. Regular moisture is preferred, but once it becomes established, it is tough enough to tolerate occasional dry spells. We do, however, recommend trying to avoid any extended dryness during the bloom time, as that will compromise flowering.
Sweet Emotion Blaze abelia blooms on old wood. Overall, very little pruning is needed. If you want to do a bit of shaping, do so immediately after flowering to avoid any negative impacts on the floral display.
Sweet Emotion Blaze abelia is currently available online. It will be arriving in garden centers in 2026.