Skimmia japonica ‘Rubella’ is a reliable, evergreen shrub that offers year-round interest and thrives in a variety of garden settings. Known for its attractive foliage, fragrant flowers, and vibrant buds, this compact plant is perfect for adding structure and seasonal color to your garden.
Key Characteristics
- Botanical Name: Skimmia japonica ‘Rubella’
- Family: Rutaceae
- Height & Spread: 60-120 cm (2-4 feet) both in height and spread.
- Foliage: Glossy, dark green leaves, aromatic when crushed.
- Flowers & Buds:
- Red flower buds form in autumn and persist through winter, adding vibrant color to the garden.
- In spring, the buds open to reveal fragrant white flowers loved by pollinators.
- Preferred Growing Conditions:
- Partial to full shade.
- Well-drained, acidic to neutral soil.
Growing Skimmia japonica ‘Rubella’
1. Location
- Choose a shady spot for optimal growth. While it tolerates morning sun, direct afternoon sunlight can scorch its foliage.
2. Soil
- Skimmias thrive in acidic to neutral soil. If your garden soil is alkaline, consider planting it in a container with ericaceous compost.
3. Planting Tips
- Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and slightly deeper.
- Add organic matter like compost to the planting hole for better drainage and nutrients.
4. Watering & Feeding
- Water regularly during dry spells, especially in the first year after planting.
- Apply an ericaceous fertilizer in spring to encourage healthy growth and bud formation.
5. Pruning
- Minimal pruning is needed. Remove any dead or damaged branches after flowering to maintain its shape.
6. Mulching
- Mulch with bark or compost annually to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Seasonal Interest
- Autumn & Winter: The deep red buds are a standout feature, bringing warm color to winter gardens.
- Spring: The buds burst into clusters of fragrant, creamy-white flowers, creating a striking display and attracting pollinators.
- Year-Round: The evergreen foliage ensures the plant remains a vibrant presence even in the dormant months.
Uses in the Garden
Skimmia japonica ‘Rubella’ is incredibly versatile:
- Borders & Beds: Its compact size and evergreen nature make it perfect for mixed shrub borders.
- Containers: Ideal for pots and planters, especially in urban or courtyard gardens.
- Shade Gardens: Fills gaps under trees or in shaded areas where other plants may struggle.
- Seasonal Displays: Combine with heathers, hollies, and ornamental grasses for a festive winter display.
Common Problems
- Yellowing Leaves: Often a sign of alkaline soil. Use ericaceous compost or chelated iron supplements to correct this.
- Scale Insects: Occasionally affected by scale, which can be treated with horticultural oils.
- Overwatering: Ensure soil is well-draining to prevent root rot.
You need both a male and a female Skimmia japonica plant to produce berries. Here’s how it works:
Pollination Basics
- Skimmia japonica ‘Rubella’ is a male cultivar, meaning it produces pollen but not berries. It’s grown primarily for its ornamental red buds and fragrant flowers.
- To get berries, you need a female plant, such as Skimmia japonica ‘Nymans’ or Skimmia japonica ‘Kew White’, which will develop the characteristic red berries if pollinated by a male plant like ‘Rubella.’
How to Ensure Berries
- Plant Proximity
- Male and female plants should be planted relatively close (within 10-15 meters) to allow pollinators like bees to transfer pollen effectively.
- Timing
- Both plants must flower at the same time in spring to ensure successful pollination. This is typically not an issue, as most Skimmias have overlapping bloom periods.
- Maintenance
- Healthy plants are more likely to produce flowers and berries, so provide proper care, including acidic soil, shade, and regular watering.
If you only have a male plant like ‘Rubella,’ it will still provide ornamental value through its buds and flowers, but no berries will form. To enjoy both flowers and berries, consider pairing ‘Rubella’ with a compatible female cultivar.
Skimmia japonica ‘Rubella’ is a hardworking shrub that rewards gardeners with minimal maintenance and year-round beauty. Whether in containers, borders, or woodland settings, this versatile plant will brighten even the darkest corners of your garden.
