About
A low-growing, evergreen shrub to about 30cm in height, 75cm in width, with narrow, leathery, dark green leaves. Conical clusters of small, scented, off-white flowers open in mid to late spring, followed by clusters of berries (if pollinated by a male variety) white at first, then pink, then red.
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
Growing conditions
SunlightFull shade, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Clay, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Wildlife gardens
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 moderately fertile, moist but well-drained, humus-rich soil in shade. Full sun may be tolerated when planted in damp soil. Also tolerant of atmospheric pollution and neglect. May become chlorotic if over-exposed to sun or on poor dry soil
PruningPruning group 8
PropagationPropagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to scale insects, and to vine weevil when grown in containers
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to Phytophthora and honey fungus