Japanese Skimmia Skimmia japonica Obsession = 'Obsbolwi' (PBR) (m/f)
ABOUT
Skimmia japonica Obsession, commonly known as Japanese skimmia, is an attractive evergreen shrub that's admired for its year-round interest. The most notable feature of this plant is its rich, glossy green leaves that are densely packed on the branches, providing a lush, full appearance. The leaves have a leathery texture and are oblong in shape with slightly curved edges, creating a pleasant visual texture in garden settings. The Japanese skimmia 'Obsession' cultivar is known for its exceptional production of red buds during the fall that persist through the winter, adding a splash of vibrant color to the otherwise muted tones of the colder seasons. Come spring, these buds open up into fragrant white flowers, which are small and star-shaped, arranged in dense clusters at the ends of the stems. These flowers not only offer a visual treat but also emit a sweet aroma that can be quite captivating in the garden. Following the flowering period, some plants, if they are female, will bear bright red berries which contrast beautifully with the green foliage. However, for berry production, both male and female plants must be present for pollination to occur as this is a dioecious cultivar, with separate male and female plants. Overall, Japanese skimmia ‘Obsession’ is appreciated for its compact and bushy habit, the contrast between its leaves, buds, flowers, and, if present, the berries, and for its multi-seasonal decorative appeal. It's a popular choice for gardeners looking to add long-lasting color and texture to their landscape without worrying about the space that the plant's size might occupy.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Japanese Skimmia, Obsession Skimmia
Common names
Skimmia japonica Obsession, Skimmia japonica 'Obsbolwi'.
ToxicityTo humans
Skimmia japonica, commonly known as Japanese skimmia, is considered to have a degree of toxicity for humans. If any parts of the plant are ingested, the person may experience symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In rare cases, more severe symptoms like respiratory problems or increased heart rate could occur, but typically the plant has a bitter taste which deters significant consumption, reducing the potential for serious poisoning.
To pets
Japanese skimmia is also toxic to pets. If a pet ingests this plant, they may show symptoms similar to those in humans, including vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Depending on the amount ingested, pets might also show signs of weakness or lethargy. It is important to keep an eye on pets and prevent them from chewing on or ingesting parts of the plant to avoid these potential health issues.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters)
Spread
3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Japan
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental value: Skimmia japonica 'Obsession' offers year-round visual interest with its shiny evergreen leaves, fragrant white flowers, and vibrant red berries.
- Low maintenance: This plant is easy to care for, requiring minimal pruning or other attention once established.
- Shade tolerance: It thrives in partial to full shade, making it an excellent choice for understory plantings and shaded gardens.
- Drought resistance: Once established, the plant can tolerate periods of dryness, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Attracts wildlife: The flowers provide nectar for pollinators, while the berries are a food source for birds.
- Compact size: With a relatively small growth habit, it fits well in smaller gardens or as part of mixed borders without overtaking surrounding plants.
- Deer resistance: It is less appealing to deer, which can be beneficial in areas where deer browsing is a problem.
- Seasonal interest: It offers a variety of seasonal changes, with flowers in spring and berries in fall and winter.
- Urban tolerance: Skimmia japonica 'Obsession' adapts well to urban conditions like pollution and limited soil space.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a natural dye: The leaves of Skimmia japonica can be used to create a natural dye for textiles, producing a range of yellowish or greenish hues.
- Insect repellent: Compounds within Skimmia japonica are known to repel certain insects, so placing cuttings around outdoor seating areas can help deter pests.
- Photography: With its vibrant red berries and lush foliage, Skimmia japonica is often used as a subject in botanical photography and plant studies.
- Aromatherapy: The leaves of the plant can be crushed to release essential oils for a soothing and calming effect in homemade aromatherapy preparations.
- Food garnishing: Though not edible, the leaves and berries could be used to garnish food platters or drinks for decoration, provided they don't come into contact with food.
- Floral arrangements: Skimmia japonica branches can be used as greenery in floral arrangements, providing a long-lasting and fragrant backdrop to flowers.
- Container gardens: With its compact growth habit, this plant could be used in container gardens to provide structure and year-round interest.
- Miniature gardens: Owing to its small size, the plant is well-suited for use in fairy gardens and other miniature gardening projects.
- Education: The plant could serve as an ideal candidate for educational purposes in horticultural courses, demonstrating cultivation techniques and plant care.
- Festive decorations: During the holidays, the berries and evergreen leaves can be incorporated into wreaths and other festive decorations.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiSkimmia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilitySkimmia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Protection: Skimmia japonica is commonly associated with protection due to its evergreen nature, symbolizing continuous safeguarding throughout the year.
- Peace: The plant is often considered a symbol of peace, as its green foliage and red berries bring a calming presence to gardens and landscapes.
- Rejuvenation: The vibrant green leaves are symbolic of new growth and renewal, much like the renewal of life in spring.
- Balance: With its perfect combination of green leaves, white flowers, and red berries, Skimmia japonica represents harmony and balance in life.
- Strength: Its robust nature and ability to withstand harsh conditions are why it is commonly used to symbolize strength and resilience.
WaterSkimmia japonica, commonly known as Japanese skimmia, thrives when the soil is kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. During the active growing season, typically spring through summer, it's best to water it thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which might be once or twice a week depending on the climate and weather conditions. Use around one gallon of water for mature plants, ensuring it reaches the root zone. During fall and winter, reduce watering to every few weeks, just enough to prevent the soil from completely drying out. It is critical to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
LightJapanese skimmia prefers a spot with partial shade to full shade; direct sunlight can scorch its leaves, particularly in the heat of the afternoon. An ideal location would be under the dappled light of larger trees or on the north side of a building where it can receive bright, indirect light. Although it tolerates a range of light conditions, extremes of either deep shade or full sun can harm its growth and vibrancy.
TemperatureJapanese skimmia favors cool to moderate temperatures and can generally withstand temperatures down to 5°F and up to 80°F. However, its ideal growing conditions are in the cooler part of this range. Prolonged exposure to temperatures above 80°F or sudden frosts below 5°F may damage the plant. Ensuring proper mulching can help to protect its root system from temperature extremes.
PruningJapanese skimmia requires minimal pruning, primarily to shape the plant or remove any dead or damaged wood. Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. It is not necessary to prune every year; occasional thinning is sufficient to maintain its natural form. When pruning, ensure clean cuts are made just above a leaf node or bud to encourage healthy regrowth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe ideal soil mix for Skimmia japonica 'Obsession', commonly known as Japanese Skimmia, should be rich, well-draining, and slightly acidic with a pH of around 5.5 to 6.5. A blend of peat moss, pine bark, and perlite or coarse sand can provide the necessary structure and acidity.
RepottingJapanese Skimmia generally does not need frequent repotting and can remain in the same pot for several years. It is ideal to repot this plant every 3 to 5 years to refresh the soil and to inspect the root system.
Humidity & MistingJapanese Skimmia thrives in moderate to high humidity levels. Providing a humidity level of around 50-60% would be ideal for this plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light with acidic soil.
Outdoor
Partial shade, sheltered spot, moist acidic soil.
Hardiness zone
7-9 USDA
Life cycleSkimmia japonica 'Obsession' begins its life cycle as a seed, requiring stratification to break its dormancy before it can germinate. Upon germination, the seedling emerges and gradually matures into a small, evergreen shrub. This self-fertile cultivar (m/f meaning it has both male and female reproductive parts) will grow to produce flowers usually between March and April, with small, fragrant clusters that are attractive to pollinators. Following pollination, the flowers develop into bright red berries by autumn, which persist through the winter and can contribute to the plant's ornamental value. The plant continues to grow and can live many years, forming a dense bush with dark green, glossy leaves. The Skimmia japonica 'Obsession' is a relatively slow grower but can eventually reach a few feet in height and spread over time through the development of suckers at the base of the plant.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Early Summer
Propogation: Skimmia japonica 'Obsession', also known as Japanese skimmia, is best propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings. This is generally done in late summer. To propagate, one should select healthy, non-flowering shoots from the current year's growth. The cuttings should be about 4 to 6 inches long (10 to 15 cm) with a couple of leaves left at the top. The lower end of the cutting is dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root growth and then placed in a well-draining potting mix. The pot should be kept in a warm, humid environment, but not in direct sunlight, and the soil should remain moist but not soggy to promote rooting. This method is reliable and maintains the characteristics of the parent plant.
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