About
Skimmia japonica, the Japanese skimmia, is a variable, evergreen, dome-shaped shrub typically to 1.5 m producing aromatic, dark-green, leathery, obovate to elliptic leaves, large and very sweetly scented, white flower heads � sometimes pink-flushed � in spring, and brilliantly bright-red, persistent fruits 8 mm across on fertilised female plants. One of the most rewarding and reliable evergreen shrubs for a shaded or semi-shaded garden.
About the genus
Skimmia are compact, evergreen shrubs with simple, aromatic leaves and terminal panicles of small, white or yellowish flowers, followed on fertilised female plants by shiny red berries; most have male and female flowers on separate plants. Excellent evergreen shrubs for shaded or semi-shaded positions.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull shade, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, City and courtyard gardens, Wildlife gardens
Native toChina, Japan
FragranceFlower, Foliage
ToxicityFruit are ornamental, not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Fruit are ornamental, not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
CultivationGrow in humus-rich, light, rich, moist but well-drained soil in partial or full shade; will grow best in neutral or acidic soils, but will also thrive in humus-rich alkaline soils; plant both male and female plants to get fruits
PruningPruning group 1 (little or no pruning of trees and shrubs) or pruning group 8 (early-flowering evergreen shrubs)
PropagationPropagate by seed, sown in a cold frame in autumn, or sown outside in spring; by softwood cuttings of new growth in early summer and given bottom heat; by semi-ripe cuttings in a cold frame in late summer; or by layering
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to scale insects, and to vine weevil when grown in containers
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to Phytophthora and honey fungus