Why 'Little Richard' Abelia Sprouts Tall Shoots—and What to Do

Understanding Reversion in Dwarf Shrubs

'Little Richard' abelia is a sport of Abelia grandiflora 'Sherwoodii', selected for compact 2–3 foot growth. However, 'Sherwoodii' occasionally produces reversions—limbs that revert to the species form, growing up to 8 feet tall. Your shrub's 4-foot shoots are likely such reversions.

Simple Fix

If the rest of the plant remains compact, simply remove the tall sprouts at their point of origin. They won't return yearly if cut properly.