Skimmia Japonica (Japanese Skimmia) are a small evergreen shrub reaching 2m. Fragrant White flowers followed by red berries in winter to spring. Originally from China and Japan, they are a hardy easy care plant grown for the foliage and pruned back hard useful as a ground cover plant.
Thriving on neglect and capable of withstanding periods of drought it also copes well with poor soils.
With a slow growing nature this is a plant that makes a good ground cover or fill in plant for the border, dense growth and with flowers buds in winter this one adds some colour to the winter garden.
In most cases male and female plants will be required if the red berries are to be an attraction in the garden. However a self fruiting variety is available from some growers it will produce the clusters of bright red fruit from a single plant.
Varieties
- Skimmia japonica ‘Rubella’ is a smaller cultivar suited to growing in pots or containers.
- Skimmia japonica ‘Bronze Knight’
Care
All Skimmia species prefer part shade and a well drained soil. Some general purpose fertiliser in spring and a little additional water through the first few summers are all the additional care required.
Pruning
These are a slow growing plant and well behaved in the garden, plants can be pruned after flowering to help maintain a more compact growth habit if required.
Skimmia Japonica is available from the following nurseries
412 James Lane, Fern Hill VIC. 3458 - Phone 0419002651
Large range of Rare plants, Climbers, Bulbs, Perennials Fruit Trees, Ornamental Trees and Shrubs. Available both Retail and by Mail Order
www.whitehousenursery.com.au
