kids encyclopedia robot

Mexican abelia facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Quick facts for kids
Mexican abelia
Vesalea floribunda (7850722958).jpg
Scientific classification
Genus:
Linnaea
Species:
floribunda
Synonyms
  • Vesalea floribunda Martens & Galeotti
  • Abelia floribunda (M.Mart. & Galeotti) Decaisne
  • Abelia speciosa Decaisne
  • Vesalea hirsuta Martens & Galeotti

Linnaea floribunda, also known as Mexican abelia, is a beautiful species of flowering plant. It belongs to the honeysuckle family, called Caprifoliaceae. This plant naturally grows in Mexico.

The Mexican abelia is a type of shrub that can be semi-evergreen or evergreen. This means it keeps some or all of its leaves all year round. It can grow quite large, reaching about 4 meters (13 feet) tall and wide. It has shiny, oval-shaped leaves.

Its flowers are a bright, deep pink color, like a cherry red, called cerise. They are shaped like tubes and can be up to 5 centimeters (2 inches) long. In the wild, these lovely flowers bloom almost all year, except in the spring. The plant also produces seed pods, which are its fruits, throughout most of the year, usually not in May and June.

Meet the Mexican Abelia

The Mexican abelia is a popular plant because of its attractive flowers. It is a shrub, which is a woody plant smaller than a tree. Its scientific name, Linnaea floribunda, helps scientists around the world know exactly which plant they are talking about. It is sometimes also called Vesalea floribunda.

Where the Mexican Abelia Grows

This plant is native to Mexico, meaning it naturally grows there. You can find it in mixed forests where pine and oak trees grow together. It also likes to grow on rocky areas. The Mexican abelia can be found at high places, from about 2,000 to 3,000 meters (6,560 to 9,840 feet) above sea level.

Growing Conditions

Even though the Mexican abelia comes from warmer climates, it can handle cold weather down to about -10 degrees Celsius (14 degrees Fahrenheit). However, it prefers a cozy, protected spot. For example, planting it against a south-facing stone wall can help keep it warm and safe from strong winds. This helps it grow its best.

Special Recognition

The Mexican abelia is a very special plant. Under its other name, Vesalea floribunda, it has received an important award. This award is called the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit. This means it is an excellent plant for gardens and is highly recommended by gardening experts.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Linnaea floribunda para niños

kids search engine
Mexican abelia Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.