Mango Twist™ Abelia

Light Needs

Full Sun

(At Least 6 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

2 Feet

Mature Spread

4-5 Feet

Growing Zones

6 to 9

Mango Twist™ Abelia (Abelia x grandiflora ‘RNTOM’ PP31041) delivers season-long color from foliage alone. New leaves open bright yellow in spring, shift to a saturated gold for summer, and finish the year in warm bronze tones. Soft white, bell-shaped flowers appear from early summer into fall, adding contrast against the golden canopy. At just 2 feet tall and spreading 4 to 5 feet wide, it forms a low, sweeping mound that works where taller shrubs would feel crowded. We like using Mango Twist™ when a bed needs dependable color without relying solely on blooms.

This hybrid abelia traces back to East Asian species and is valued for toughness in heat and humidity. It is semi-evergreen to evergreen in milder parts of Zones 6–9, holding much of its foliage through winter. Deer generally ignore it, and once established it handles short dry periods with ease. Its arching, layered habit makes it effective as a groundcover-style mass planting, a low hedge along walkways, or a bright accent in foundation beds. It also performs well in large patio containers and complements contemporary, cottage, and pollinator-friendly landscapes.

Mango Twist™ Abelia Care

Plant in full sun for the richest gold foliage; light afternoon shade is acceptable in hotter climates. Abelia adapts to a range of soils, including clay or sandy loam, as long as drainage is good. A slightly acidic to neutral pH between about 6.0 and 7.0 supports healthy growth, but it is not fussy about minor variations. Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots. After establishment, irrigate during extended dry spells and avoid consistently soggy soil. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support dense growth and steady flowering.

Minimal pruning is required. Light trimming or shearing in late winter or early spring helps maintain a compact outline. Deadheading is optional, as spent blooms drop cleanly. If plants become sparse over time, rejuvenate by thinning out a few of the oldest stems at the base to stimulate fresh growth. In colder parts of Zone 6, a winter mulch layer helps protect roots.

Mango Twist™ Abelia Spacing

Space plants about 3 to 4 feet apart for a continuous mass or low hedge. When planting as individual specimens, allow the full 4 to 5 feet of width for the natural arching form to develop.

For containers, choose a pot at least 18 inches wide with good drainage. Combine with upright ornamental grasses for contrast, or tuck in trailing calibrachoa or sweet potato vine along the rim for layered texture. Choose well-behaved companions so Mango Twist™ remains the focal point.

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