The Abelia bubble hasn't really been popped. You can use it as a common name. In fact, we have a special Abelias Database, which includes all of our Linnaea and Zabelia species, as well as the plants once known as species of the Abelia, Dipelta, and Kolkwitzia genera but now reclassified as Linnaea or Zabelia species. So do let the name darken your doorstep or even step out into the blinding light, but only as a common name.
The Abelias Database
In response to your education question, I must admit that all of my degrees are in comparative literature and comparative religion. I never took a single botany class, but I'm good at research.
I don't really know of any good reference book for beginners. Maybe someone else can suggest one.
