Skimmia japonica ‘Rubella’: A Gardener’s Guide

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

1. Plant Proximity
   • Male and female plants should be planted relatively close (within 10-15 meters) to allow pollinators like bees to transfer pollen effectively.
2. 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.
3. 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.