Japanese Skimmia Skimmia japonica 'Rubella' (m)
ABOUT
The Skimmia japonica 'Rubella' is a male cultivar known for its compact evergreen shrub form, which contributes to a year-round interest in gardens. The plant is characterized by its glossy, leathery leaves that are dark green in color, providing a rich backdrop for the other features of the shrub. One of the most striking aspects of 'Rubella' is its dense clusters of reddish-brown buds, which are present throughout fall and winter, creating a charming contrast against the foliage. These buds give the plant a look of being in a constant state of pre-bloom, adding to the anticipation of spring. When spring arrives, the buds open to reveal small, fragrant, star-shaped white flowers, which are prolific and visually appealing. The overall form of the 'Rubella' is rounded, giving it a neat appearance in the landscape with minimal pruning. Its dense habit makes it an excellent choice for use as a foundation plant, in borders, or as part of a mixed shrub planting, where its glossy leaves and seasonal changes in appearance can be appreciated. The male flowers are also important for their role in pollinating female Skimmia varieties, which is essential for the production of berries on those plants. 'Rubella' also produces an attractive red-to-brown colored wood, which further adds to the ornamental value of the plant. The stems are sturdy and support the weight of the flowers and foliage well. Overall, Skimmia japonica 'Rubella' is appreciated for its year-round interest, attractive foliage and flower buds, fragrant blossoms, and hardy nature, making it a valued addition to temperate gardens.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rutaceae.
Synonyms
Japanese Skimmia, Rubella Skimmia.
Common names
Skimmia japonica 'Rubella' (m)
ToxicityTo humans
Skimmia, including the ‘Rubella' variety, is considered to be mildly toxic to humans when ingested. Although severe poisoning is rare, consumption of its berries, leaves, or any other parts can potentially result in symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. It is advisable to avoid ingesting parts of the Skimmia plant, as they contain compounds that can cause these unpleasant symptoms.
To pets
Skimmia is also toxic to pets if ingested. Similar to humans, pets may experience symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort upon consumption of the berries, leaves, or other parts of the plant. It is crucial to keep Skimmia out of reach of pets to prevent accidental ingestion and potential poisoning. If you suspect your pet has ingested Skimmia, you should contact a veterinarian promptly.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
3-4 feet (0.91-1.22 meters)
Spread
3-4 feet (0.91-1.22 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Japan
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Skimmia Rubella offers year-round visual interest with its glossy evergreen leaves, red buds in Autumn and Winter, and fragrant white flowers in Spring.
- Low Maintenance: This plant requires minimal pruning and care, making it ideal for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, Skimmia Rubella can tolerate periods of dryness, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Shade Tolerant: It thrives well in partial to full shade, making it suitable for underplanting beneath taller trees or in shady areas of the garden.
- Cold Hardy: Skimmia Rubella is resilient to cold temperatures, making it a good choice for gardens in colder climates.
- Pest and Disease Resistant: The plant is generally resistant to pests and diseases, which helps minimize the need for chemical treatments.
- Wildlife Friendly: The flowers provide nectar for pollinators, while the berries attract birds, supporting local biodiversity.
- Container Gardening: It is well-suited for pots and containers, allowing for garden displays on patios, balconies, or other areas with limited space.
- Architectural Plant: With its structured form and attractive foliage, Skimmia Rubella can serve as a focal point in garden design.
- Seasonal Berries: Female varieties produce red berries when a male pollinator, like Skimmia Rubella, is nearby, adding to the plant's ornamental value.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Skimmia japonica 'Rubella' can be used as a natural dye, providing a range of colors for textiles depending on the mordant used.
- The wood of Skimmia japonica 'Rubella' is sometimes used in small woodworking projects for its fine grain and decorative quality.
- The compact and evergreen nature of the plant makes it an ideal choice for creating low-maintenance bonsai trees.
- Its dense foliage can be used in creating live privacy screens in gardens or on patios.
- The plant's berries are sometimes used in floral arrangements to provide a pop of color, though they should not be eaten.
- Skimmia japonica 'Rubella' is beneficial for urban landscaping as it tolerates pollution well and can be used in city gardens and public spaces.
- In addition to its use in gardens, the plant is also suitable for container planting, ideal for balconies and terraces.
- The aromatic leaves of Skimmia japonica 'Rubella' can be used to line drawers or trunks, offering a natural way to discourage moths and impart a fresh scent to linens or clothing.
- During winter, Skimmia japonica 'Rubella' provides structure and interest to otherwise barren gardens, making it useful in winter-themed garden designs.
- The consistency and color of its foliage make it a good candidate for background plants in dioramas and model landscapes.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Skimmia plant is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Skimmia plant is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Protection - Skimmia japonica 'Rubella' is believed to symbolize protection due to its dense evergreen foliage which offers shelter to birds and wildlife throughout the year.
- Longevity - This plant is associated with longevity because it is a hardy shrub that can survive in a garden for many years with proper care.
- Peace - The smooth texture and harmonious green of its leaves are thought to bring peace and tranquility to a garden space, making it a symbol of calm.
- Renewal - As 'Rubella' blooms often emerge in late winter to early spring, they signify renewal and the cycle of life.
WaterSkimmia japonica 'Rubella', commonly known as Japanese Skimmia, should be watered regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season in spring and summer, watering may be necessary once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions, with each watering providing enough water to moisten the soil to a depth of several inches. It is important to reduce the frequency to once every couple of weeks or less during the winter months when the plant is not actively growing. On average, applying about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water per occasion should suffice, ensuring that the water penetrates the root zone.
LightJapanese Skimmia thrives best in partial shade to full shade. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as too much sun can lead to leaf scorch. The ideal spot for Japanese Skimmia is beneath the canopy of larger trees where it can receive dappled sunlight or in a location that gets morning sun and afternoon shade. These light conditions will help maintain the vibrant color of the foliage and support healthy growth.
TemperatureJapanese Skimmia prefers a cool to moderate temperature range, and temperatures between 60°F and 75°F are ideal for this evergreen shrub. It is quite cold-hardy and can survive temperatures down to about 0°F, but it is susceptible to damage if the temperature exceeds 80°F for extended periods. To ensure optimal growth and health, protect the plant from extreme heat by providing adequate shade and moisture.
PruningPruning Japanese Skimmia is primarily done to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged branches. It's best to prune in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Thinning out older branches every few years encourages rejuvenation and improves air circulation within the plant. Light pruning also helps to stimulate the production of the next year's flower buds.
CleaningAs needed
SoilJapanese Skimmia 'Rubella' thrives in acidic, well-drained soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. A mix incorporating peat, pine bark, and perlite can create an ideal environment. Regular soil testing can help maintain the correct pH levels for optimal growth.
RepottingJapanese Skimmia 'Rubella' doesn't need frequent repotting and can be done every 2 to 3 years. Repot in spring before new growth begins, choosing a pot only slightly larger than the previous one to prevent root rot.
Humidity & MistingJapanese Skimmia 'Rubella' prefers moderate to high humidity levels, with ideal conditions ranging from 50% to 70% humidity for optimal growth and health.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright, indirect light and cool temperature for Skimmia 'Rubella'.
Outdoor
Plant in partially shaded area with moist, well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
6-8 USDA
Life cycleSkimmia japonica 'Rubella', commonly known as Japanese skimmia, begins its life as a seed, which germinates in moist, well-drained soil, usually in partial shade. Following germination, it develops into a young seedling with typical compound leaves. As the plant matures, it forms an evergreen shrub with deep green, glossy leaves, and for 'Rubella', a male cultivar, it produces fragrant flower buds in the fall which are reddish-pink. In spring, the buds open to clusters of white flowers, which are rich in nectar and attract pollinators, though 'Rubella', being male, does not produce berries. If a female skimmia is nearby, cross-pollination can occur, leading to the production of red berries on the female plants. With proper care, the life of this shrub can extend many years, as it grows slowly and remains attractive through all seasons.
PropogationPropogation time
Early Spring
The Skimmia japonica 'Rubella', a male form of Skimmia, is best propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings. The ideal time for taking cuttings is in late summer or early autumn. To propagate, one should select healthy semi-hardwood stems and cut lengths of approximately 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters). Each cutting must have several leaf nodes, as roots will form from these points. It's important to strip the leaves from the lower half of the cutting and dip the cut end into a rooting hormone to encourage root growth. The cutting should then be placed in a pot filled with a mixture of peat and perlite, ensuring good drainage. The cutting needs a humid environment to root, which can be provided by covering it with a plastic bag or placing it in a cold frame. Rooting typically occurs within a few weeks, after which the new plants can be gradually acclimatized to outdoor conditions before planting in their permanent location.
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