Does fertilizer help with flowers?

Too much nitrogen fertilizer can encourage leaves instead of flowers. Use a balanced fertilizer sparingly.

When should I see flowers?

Glossy abelia typically blooms from summer through fall. You should see buds forming as the weather warms up.

Why is my glossy abelia not flowering? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Check the pruning history for the current year.
Observe the light levels throughout the day.
Look for signs of pests that might be eating the buds.

Likely causes

Improper pruning
Most likely
How to tell: You pruned the plant heavily in late spring or summer, after new shoots had formed. You do not see any flower buds forming on the new growth.
What to do: Prune in late winter or early spring, before new growth starts, since glossy abelia flowers on the current season's new shoots. You can remove dead or crossing branches at any time.
Too much shade
Possible
How to tell: The plant looks healthy and green but produces very few flowers. It is located in a spot that gets mostly shade.
What to do: Move the plant to a spot with full sun or partial shade. If it is in the ground, consider trimming back overhanging tree branches to let more light in.

Other plants that won't flower

Find out what's wrong with your glossy abelia

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

It is normal for young plants to take a year or two to establish before blooming heavily. Worry only if the plant is mature and has not bloomed for two seasons.

Stopping it coming back

Ensure the plant gets at least 6 hours of sun and do any heavy pruning in late winter or early spring, before new growth starts.

Glossy abelia: not flowering? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your glossy abelia and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Does fertilizer help with flowers?: Too much nitrogen fertilizer can encourage leaves instead of flowers. Use a balanced fertilizer sparingly.
When should I see flowers?: Glossy abelia typically blooms from summer through fall. You should see buds forming as the weather warms up.

Why is my glossy abelia not flowering?