Skimmia Japonica Rubella 3 litre pot

Description

Pot Size:
Supplied in a 3-litre pot with a well-established root system, perfect for immediate planting in borders or containers.

Ultimate Plant Size:
Reaches approximately 1 metre in height and spread, forming a neat, dome-shaped shrub over time.

Flower and Foliage:

• Foliage: Aromatic, evergreen leaves – deep green and leathery with a lightly spicy fragrance when crushed.

• Flower Buds: Striking deep red buds form in autumn and remain decorative throughout winter.

• Flowers: In spring (March–April), the buds open to small, creamy-white flowers with a light, sweet fragrance.

• Months of Interest: September to April (buds), March to May (flowers), evergreen all year.

USDA Hardiness Zones:
Hardy in Zones 6–9. Tolerates cold winters with minimal protection.

GardenAdvice Notes

General Notes:
Skimmia ‘Rubella’ is one of the best shrubs for winter structure and colour. It’s a male variety, so it doesn’t bear berries but is essential for pollinating female Skimmias such as S. japonica ‘Nymans’ or ‘Reevesiana’ to encourage berry formation. Great for low-maintenance gardens.

Soil Type:
Thrives in acidic to neutral soils that are moisture-retentive but well-drained. Avoid chalky or alkaline soil to prevent leaf yellowing (chlorosis). If growing in pots, use an ericaceous compost.

Location:
Prefers partial to full shade – a perfect choice for areas under trees, along shady fences, or north-facing walls. Excellent in containers placed by a front door or on a shaded patio.

Pests and Disease Problems:
Generally trouble-free. May suffer from scale insects or vine weevil larvae in pots. Ensure good drainage and avoid alkaline soils to prevent leaf discolouration.

Propagation:
Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings taken in late summer and rooted under glass or in a cold frame.

Pruning, Cutting Back & Dividing:
Minimal pruning required. Trim lightly after flowering to maintain shape if needed. Avoid heavy cutting back into old wood.

Other Notes of Interest:

• Pollinator Friendly: Flowers attract early bees in spring when few other plants are in bloom.

• Great in Containers: Perfect for winter containers mixed with heucheras, ferns, or trailing ivy.

• Scented: Both the foliage and flowers offer subtle fragrance – rare among evergreens.

• Low Maintenance: Ideal for busy gardeners or low-care schemes.

• Japanese Heritage: Native to Japan and East Asia, valued for its form and all-season interest.

• Award Winner: RHS Award of Garden Merit (AGM) for reliability and performance.

🪴 Please note our plants in most instances are delivered by our own GardenAdvice expert gardeners. Our standard UK delivery charge is £25 or if you are a MyGardenTeam member, delivery is free.
🌱 Our plants are guaranteed for 24 months – for more details Click Here