About
This large, evergreen shrub, ultimately reaching 3m high and wide, with leathery, pointed, oval, aromatic foliage. A female variety producing conical clusters of tiny, strongly scented, creamy-white flowers in spring followed by long-lasting, bright scarlet berries.
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, Full sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Clay
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, West-facing, South-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens
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 moderately fertile, moist but well-drained, humus-rich soil in sun or shade. May become chlorotic on poor, dry soil
PruningPruning group 8
PropagationPropagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to scale insects
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to Phytophthora and honey fungus