Japanese Skimmia Skimmia japonica 'Nymans' (f)

Names

• Family

  Rutaceae

• Synonyms

  Japanese Skimmia, Nymans Skimmia

• Common names

  Skimmia japonica 'Nymans' (f).

Toxicity

• To humans

  Skimmia japonica 'Nymans', commonly known as just Skimmia, has a level of toxicity to humans if ingested. All parts of the plant, including leaves and berries, contain compounds that can be harmful when eaten. Although cases of severe poisoning are rare, ingestion could lead to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In some individuals, particularly children, eating the berries can result in a more severe reaction, including drowsiness and slowed breathing. It is advisable to seek medical attention if ingestion occurs, especially in case of significant amounts being consumed.

• To pets

  Skimmia can be toxic to pets if ingested. The entire plant, including the berries and leaves, contains toxins that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain in animals like dogs and cats. If a pet consumes a considerable quantity of Skimmia, it may experience more serious symptoms such as weakness, lethargy, and in rare cases, seizures. If you suspect your pet has ingested Skimmia, it is important to contact a veterinarian promptly for advice and potential treatment.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Evergreen

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  White

• Height

  3-4 feet (0.91-1.22 meters)

• Spread

  3-4 feet (0.91-1.22 meters)

• Plant type

  Shrub

• Hardiness zones

  6

• Native area

  Japan

General Benefits

• Ornamental Appeal: Skimmia japonica 'Nymans' adds aesthetic value to gardens with its glossy evergreen leaves and clusters of fragrant white flowers, followed by red berries on female plants.
• Wildlife Attraction: The flowers are attractive to pollinators such as bees, while the berries provide a food source for birds during the winter.
• Shade Tolerance: This plant thrives in partial shade, making it ideal for planting under larger trees or in shadowed areas of the garden.
• Low Maintenance: Once established, it requires minimal care, with little need for pruning or special treatments.
• Deer Resistance: Skimmia is generally resistant to browsing by deer, making it suitable for gardens in areas with high deer populations.
• Year-Round Interest: With evergreen foliage, spring flowers, and autumn berries, it provides visual interest throughout the four seasons.
• Drought Tolerance: Although it prefers moist, well-drained soils, it can tolerate periods of dryness once established.
• Size Control: It is relatively slow-growing, allowing for easy control over size and shape in the landscape.

Medical Properties

This plant is not used for medical purposes.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Decoration in aquariums - The cut branches and foliage of Skimmia japonica can be used as natural decoration in aquariums, but they need to be treated to prevent any adverse effects on aquatic life.
• Insect repellent - The strong aromatic compounds in Skimmia leaves can deter certain insects when the leaves are crushed and rubbed onto the skin or hung in bunches near entryways.
• Natural dye - Extracts from the berries and foliage can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics and crafts.
• Culinary garnishing - Although not edible, the bright red berries and glossy green leaves can be used as a non-toxic garnish to enhance the visual appeal of dishes.
• Craft materials - The robust nature of Skimmia stems and leaves allow them to be used in wreaths and floral arrangements, providing structure and greenery.
• Fragrance extraction - Essential oils can be extracted from the leaves and used to make perfumes or scented products.
• Photography prop - Its attractive appearance makes Skimmia a suitable photography prop for close-up shots and nature compositions.
• Plant-based art - Artists may use the leaves, berries, and stems of Skimmia in creating botanical prints, collages, and other forms of plant-based art.
• Teaching aid - Skimmia can be utilized in educational settings, such as botanical studies and demonstration of plant structures or life cycles.
• Potpourri ingredient - The leaves and dried berries can be mixed with other ingredients to create fragrant potpourri for scenting indoor spaces.

Feng Shui

Skimmia is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

Skimmia is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Protection: Skimmia japonica, commonly known as Skimmia, is often associated with protection due to its robust evergreen leaves and red berries, symbolizing a steadfast guard.
• Persistence: As it endures through the seasons with minimal care, Skimmia symbolizes persistence and resilience.
• Peace: The plant's tranquil green foliage and the capacity to grow in shady areas often associate it with peace and tranquility.
• Femininity: Skimmia japonica 'Nymans' (f) is a female variety that bears red berries, a feature that can symbolize femininity and fertility in some cultural contexts, celebrating the life-giving aspects traditionally associated with womanhood.