Butterflies in Mind -- Zinnia
Susan C. Dunlap
A collection of 50 images as if seen from a butterfly’s point of view. Includes the names of native Zinnia species and the most complete list of US butterflies that will feed on Zinnia blossoms.
Butterflies in Mind -- Asclepias
Susan C. Dunlap
“Milkweed is the single most important plant for Monarch butterflies. This lavishly illustrated book contains details about the structure and cultivation of native Milkweeds, information about the 139 nectar-feeding butterflies they...
Butterflies in Mind -- Monarch
Susan C. Dunlap
This abundantly illustrated volume enables you to select from a complete list of well described perennial nectar plants that are known to attract & feed Monarch butterflies. Over 40 genera are described that are suitable to be grown...
Butterflies in Mind -- Perennials
Susan C. Dunlap
Butterflies in Mind - Perennials. This book is a definitive guide to perennial nectar plants preferred by US butterflies. It empowers you to feed, attract, support (and help identify) nectar-feeding butterflies that reside in the US....

Abelia x grandiflora ‘Sunrise’

Family: Caprifoliaceae

Native to: Origin Unknown

Plant

Type: shrub

Forms: arching, dense form, erect, open form

Leaves evergreen

Max height: 5.5 feet

Max width: 6.6 feet

Flower

white/off white

Leaf

green, light, secondary color present

new growth distinct

Horticulture

Attracts wildlife: adult butterfly, bee, specific butterfly species

Plant features: evergreen

Exposure: part shade, sun

Propagates by: cutting

flowers in fall

flowers in summer

Soil type: loam

USDA Zones: zone 7 to 0 f, zone 8 to +10 f, zone 9 to +20 f

Temp. range: 0 to +30 °F

Water: drought tolerant, regular

Abelia is a very long lived drought tolerant shrub that attracts bees - they love this plant. Need plants for shelter? You can use this one. Mature plants provide a favorable setting for birds to nest and for birds to use as shelter.

Two butterflies are known to feed on Abelia - Western Tiger swallowtail and the Gold Banded-Skipper. Other butterflies have been observed feeding on them as Abelia is listed as a generic nectar plant for butterflies. Abelia x grandiflora is a "host" plant for a truly lovely moth that may also use this cultivar as a host plant. The moth, hummingbird clearwing, Hemaris thysbe, is active during the day. Hummingbird clearwing occupies a broad range in the United States. Its habitat includes cultivated gardens as well as meadows and second-growth forests. Report your wildlife sighting to us and we will include it here!

Abelia grandiflora Sunrise, a variegated evergreen shrub, is hardy in Zone 7, Zone 8, and Zone 9. It can be used as an accent plant or as a privacy border. This cultivar is distinct from x grandiflora - it has lighter, two-tone variegated foliage and is a bit smaller overall.