Skimmia japonica Rubella 5L
Skimmia Rubella is a compact, evergreen shrub prized for its striking red winter buds and beautifully fragrant white flowers in spring. A true seasonal standout, it provides colour and interest when most plants are dormant.
Its neat, rounded habit and glossy green foliage make it perfect for containers, shaded borders, and low-maintenance planting schemes.
Key Features
- Showy deep red buds from autumn through winter
- Fragrant creamy-white flowers in early spring
- Compact, dense and bushy habit
- Evergreen for year-round structure
- Ideal for shade and containers
- Excellent for winter interest
Plant Details
- Plant type: Evergreen shrub (male variety)
- Pot size: 5L
- Height & spread: Approx. 1.5m x 1.5m
- Foliage: Glossy dark green
- Flowering period: Early spring
Growing Conditions
- Position: Partial shade to full shade
- Soil: Moist, humus-rich, preferably acidic soil
- Aspect: Sheltered; avoid hot, exposed positions
Care Guide
- Watering: Keep soil consistently moist, especially in dry periods
- Feeding: Use an ericaceous (acid-loving) fertiliser in spring
- Pruning: Lightly trim after flowering if needed
- Mulching: Apply organic mulch annually to retain moisture
Important Note
- Male variety does not produce berries
- Ideal for pollinating female Skimmia varieties (e.g. Skimmia reevesiana) to encourage berry production
Garden Uses
- Perfect for winter colour in shaded borders
- Ideal for containers, patios, and entrances
- Great for woodland or low-light planting schemes
- Adds structure to mixed evergreen planting
Why Choose Skimmia Rubella?
- Provides bold winter colour when little else is flowering
- Compact and ideal for small spaces
- Fragrant spring blooms
- Easy to grow in shade
A garden favourite, Skimmia Rubella delivers year-round structure and standout winter colour, making it an essential addition to any shaded garden.
