Skimmia japonica 'Rubella'

Skimmia japonica ‘Rubella’ is a compact evergreen shrub prized for its glossy dark green foliage and clusters of deep red flower buds that provide rich colour throughout autumn and winter. As spring arrives, the buds open into masses of small, fragrant creamy-white flowers.

'Rubella’ is perfect for patio pots, doorstep displays, balconies and shady garden borders, bringing structure and colour at a time of year when many other plants are dormant.

Light & Position

Grow outdoors in partial shade or light shade. An east-, west- or north-facing position is ideal. Avoid prolonged strong midday sun, which can cause the foliage to yellow or scorch.

Skimmia is particularly useful for brightening shadier corners of the garden where many flowering shrubs struggle.

Soil & Planting

Plant in moist but well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. ‘Rubella’ performs particularly well in neutral to acidic soils, but it is not strictly an ericaceous plant.

When growing in a container, use a good-quality multipurpose or shrub compost and make sure excess water can drain freely.

Watering

Keep the soil or compost reasonably moist, particularly while the plant is establishing or growing in a container. Water when the surface begins to dry, allowing excess water to drain away.

Avoid both prolonged drought and permanently waterlogged soil.

Autumn, Winter & Spring Colour

Deep red flower buds develop during autumn and remain decorative through winter, gradually becoming more prominent as spring approaches. The buds then open into fragrant creamy-white flowers, providing an attractive transition from winter foliage interest into spring bloom.

‘Rubella’ is a male Skimmia and does not produce berries. Its flowers can, however, help pollinate compatible female Skimmias growing nearby.

Feeding

Feed lightly in spring with a balanced slow-release shrub fertiliser or suitable liquid feed. Avoid excessive feeding, which can encourage soft growth at the expense of a naturally compact habit.

Pruning

Very little pruning is required. Remove any damaged or untidy growth after flowering if necessary, but otherwise allow the plant to develop its naturally neat, bushy shape.

Why You'll Love It

• Deep red flower buds provide colour through autumn and winter
• Fragrant creamy-white flowers in spring
• Glossy evergreen foliage for year-round structure
• Excellent for shady and partially shaded positions
• Ideal for pots, balconies and garden borders
• Hardy and relatively low maintenance
• Useful male pollinator for compatible female Skimmias

Pet & Child Safety

Skimmia should not be eaten. Keep out of reach of pets and young children if they are likely to chew the plant.

Plant Details

Botanical Name: Skimmia japonica ‘Rubella’
Common Name: Skimmia / Japanese Skimmia
Nursery Pot Size: 13cm
Approximate Height: 30cm
Growth Habit: Compact and bushy
Foliage: Evergreen
Flower Buds: Deep red
Flowers: Fragrant creamy-white
Position: Outdoors