Skimmia japonica 'Rubella'

Skimmia japonica ‘Rubella’ is a compact evergreen shrub that brings rich colour to outdoor spaces through the colder months. Clusters of deep red flower buds stand above glossy, dark green leaves from autumn through winter, opening into fragrant, creamy-white flowers in spring.

Supplied in a 15cm nursery pot at approximately 30cm tall, it is a lovely choice for a sheltered doorstep, shady patio or seasonal container. Its red buds and evergreen foliage create a naturally festive display, with plenty to enjoy after Christmas too.

What Makes ‘Rubella’ Special?

‘Rubella’ offers interest across the seasons: colourful buds in autumn and winter, scented flowers in spring and handsome foliage throughout the year. Its neat, bushy shape makes it easy to include in smaller gardens and outdoor pots.

The red clusters are flower buds, not berries. ‘Rubella’ is a male skimmia and does not produce fruit, although it can help pollinate a compatible female skimmia growing nearby.

Light & Position

Grow outdoors in partial shade or a shadier, sheltered position. It works particularly well beside a north- or east-facing entrance, or on a patio protected from strong afternoon sunshine.

Avoid exposed, drying winds and hot, sunny spots. This is an outdoor shrub and should not be kept in a heated room as a houseplant.

Watering

Keep the compost moist but well drained, checking pots regularly and watering when the surface begins to dry. Water thoroughly, then allow excess water to escape through the drainage holes.

Container plants need checking even during winter, especially beneath a porch or beside a wall where rain may not reach them. Avoid allowing the root ball to dry out completely or leaving the pot standing in water.

Soil & Planting

Plant in moisture-retentive, well-drained soil, or use a good-quality peat-free compost suitable for shrubs in containers. A loam-based mix helps provide lasting structure for a permanent pot display.

Choose an outdoor planter with drainage holes and room for the roots to develop. Plant at the same depth as in the nursery pot.

Winter Care

‘Rubella’ is a hardy evergreen shrub that can remain outdoors throughout the year. Choose a frost-resistant planter and make sure winter rain can drain freely.

During prolonged severe freezes, move small pots to a sheltered position and protect the container to help insulate the roots.

Feeding

For container-grown plants, apply a fertiliser suitable for shrubs in spring, following the product instructions. Established plants in fertile garden soil usually need little additional feeding.

Growth & Care

Skimmia ‘Rubella’ grows slowly into a rounded shrub and needs little pruning. If necessary, lightly tidy its shape after flowering.

Faded flower heads can be removed for a neater appearance, but deadheading will not produce a repeat flush of flowers. Avoid clipping away the developing buds later in the year, as these provide the following winter's display.

Why You'll Love It

• Deep red flower buds for autumn and winter colour
• Fragrant, creamy-white flowers in spring
• Glossy evergreen foliage for year-round interest
• A lovely choice for sheltered doorsteps and shady patios
• Slow-growing, naturally bushy and easy to maintain
• Supplied at approximately 30cm tall in a 15cm nursery pot

Pet & Child Safety

This is an ornamental shrub and is not intended to be eaten. Keep it out of reach of pets and young children who may chew plants. ‘Rubella’ is a male variety and does not produce berries.

Plant Details

Botanical Name: Skimmia japonica ‘Rubella’
Common Name: Japanese Skimmia
Nursery Pot Size: 15cm
Approximate Height: 30cm
Growth Habit: Compact / bushy evergreen shrub
Position: Outdoors / partial shade to shade
Seasonal Interest: Red buds in autumn and winter / flowers in spring
Berry-Producing: No / male variety

Each plant is naturally unique, so shape and size may vary slightly. Bud and flower development will vary with the season.