ShrubsSkimmia japonica
Japanese Skimmia
Japanese Skimmia is a compact, evergreen shrub with aromatic dark green foliage, fragrant white flowers in March-April, and bright red berries in winter (on female plants). Providing year-round structure and colour, it is one of the most popular shrubs for shade and containers.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Partial shade, Full shade
- Water
- Medium
- Height
- 60–120 cm
- Spread
- 60–120 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 7–9
- Family
- Rutaceae
- Evergreen
- Yes
- Flower colors
- white
- Wildlife value
- bees, birds
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant in partial shade or full shade in acid to neutral, moist soil. Avoid chalky soil and full sun — this causes yellowing. Water regularly and mulch with leaf mould. For berries, plant a male and female together.
Pruning tips
Skimmia needs virtually no pruning. Remove any dead or damaged wood in spring. A light shaping after flowering is possible but rarely necessary. Never prune hard — the plant grows slowly.
Good companions
ShrubsRhododendron catawbiense
Rhododendron
The Rhododendron is an evergreen shrub that produces spectacular clusters of purple or pink flowers in May and June above glossy dark-green foliage. The shrub can grow quite large and makes an imposing presence in partial shade. Rhododendrons are iconic in woodland gardens and rural plantings.
PerennialsHosta sieboldiana
Hosta
Hosta is the quintessential shade plant, valued for its large, blue-green, ribbed leaves. Light purple or white bell-shaped flowers appear on tall stems in July and August. Over the years the plant forms substantial clumps that give a shaded border a lush character.
PerennialsHelleborus orientalis
Lenten Rose
The Lenten Rose is one of the first bloomers of the garden year, with saucer-shaped flowers in purple, pink or white appearing as early as February. The evergreen, palmate foliage forms attractive clumps that remain decorative year-round. The plant is a valuable early nectar source for bees.