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, growing well in shaded areas of the garden 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’
How To Grow Skimmia Japonica – Basic 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.
They can be grown in pots and containers and as they are shade tolerant plants are suited for a shaded area in a courtyard or on a patio if desired.
Watering
Proper watering is crucial for the health of Skimmia japonica. This shrub prefers moist soil but not wet or waterlogged soils
Watering Technique
- Wet soils or overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s essential to ensure good drainage.
- Frequency: Use a wet dry watering sequence, water the plant deeply, especially during dry spells. Allow the soil to dry just va little before watering again.
- Deepl watering encourages root growth. Soaker hose s or drip irrigation system can used if you can’t be around to water over summer, however it is not recommend to to leave drip irrigation or soaker hoses on for long periods, so a timmer would be needed.
- Reduce watering in the fall/uatumn and winter months when the plant is in dormancy. \
Light
- This is a plant that is best grown in partial to full shade, making it an excellent choice for shaded areas in gardens. Here’s how to optimize light conditions:
- It prefers filtered sunlight or dappled shade. Direct sunlight especially afternoon sun can scorch the leaves, while insufficient light can hinder flowering and berry production.
- Outdoors grow Skimmia japonica under taller plants or trees that provide overhead shade, especially during the hottest part of the day.
- Indoors, place it near a window that will provide receives filtered or indirect light, not direct sun exposure.
Temperature
- Skimmia japonica is quite adaptable to various climates but prefers moderate conditions. Here’s what to consider regarding temperature and humidity:
- The Best temperature Range is from 60°F to 70°F (15°C to 21°C) during the day, with cooler nights. Avoids positions subject to frost as frost will quickly caise foliage damage.
- USDA hardiness zones 7 to 9 or a Mediterranean to cool Temperate climate are ideal.
- Skimmia japonica enjoys humidity, making it suitable for environments with higher moisture levels. If grown indoors, consider placing a humidifier nearby or using a pebble tray filled with water to increase humidity around the plant.
Keep the plant away from heating and air conditioning ducts.
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