Skimmia 'Veitchii' Skimmia japonica 'Veitchii' (f)

Water

Japanese Skimmia prefers evenly moist but well-draining soil, so it's important to water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch without overwatering. Generally, this plant will require watering every week or two, depending on climate conditions and season. During hot, dry periods, Japanese Skimmia may need to be watered more frequently. Provide roughly 1 gallon of water for outdoor plants or slightly less for potted specimens to ensure the root zone is sufficiently moist. In winter, reduce watering frequency, as the plant requires less moisture due to slower growth and cooler temperatures.

Light

Japanese Skimmia thrives in partial shade to full shade locations, where it can be protected from the harsh afternoon sun. The ideal spot for this plant is under the canopy of larger trees or on the north side of a building, where it will receive dappled sunlight or light shade throughout the day. Avoid placing Japanese Skimmia in full sun, as it may lead to scorched leaves and stress the plant.

Temperature

Japanese Skimmia can tolerate a range of temperatures but performs best in areas where average daytime temperatures are between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive in temperatures as low as 0 degrees Fahrenheit but should be protected from severe cold snaps. Ideally, provide a location that remains relatively cool and avoids the extremes of both winter chill and summer heat.

Pruning

Pruning Japanese Skimmia is primarily done to shape the plant or remove any damaged or dead growth. It's best to prune in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. You can also prune after the plant has finished flowering to maintain a desirable size. Generally, pruning once a year is sufficient unless you are dealing with dead branches, which should be removed as needed.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Japanese Skimmia thrives in a well-draining, acidic soil mix with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. A blend of peat, pine bark, and perlite or sand makes an ideal growing medium for this plant.

Repotting

Japanese Skimmia should be repotted every two to three years to refresh the soil and encourage healthy growth.

Humidity & Misting

Japanese Skimmia prefers moderate to high humidity levels for optimal growth.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light, keep soil lightly moist.

• Outdoor

  Shaded location, well-draining acidic soil, shelter from harsh winds.

• Hardiness zone

  7-9 USDA

Life cycle

Skimmia japonica 'Veitchii' (female), commonly known as Japanese Skimmia, begins its life cycle when the seeds, often dispersed by birds, germinate in moist, well-drained soil with partial shade. The seedlings emerge and slowly grow into compact evergreen shrubs, developing glossy, leathery leaves. As the plant matures, it begins its reproductive stage, producing fragrant white flowers in the spring, which are pollinated by insects. Following pollination, if a male plant is nearby to provide pollen, the female Skimmia japonica 'Veitchii' develops red berries in the autumn, which persist through the winter and are a food source for birds. The shrub reaches full maturity in several years and can live for many years, requiring minimal maintenance. Throughout its life, the Japanese Skimmia remains an attractive plant due to its evergreen foliage, with seasonal interest from its flowers and berries.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Early Spring

• The Skimmia japonica 'Veitchii' is typically propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings. The optimal time for taking cuttings is in late summer, when the new growth has begun to mature and harden. To propagate, a gardener would take a cutting of about 4 to 6 inches (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters) in length, making sure it includes at least two or three sets of leaves. The lower leaves are then removed, and the cut end is dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root growth. After this, the cutting is placed in a pot filled with a well-draining rooting medium and kept in a humid environment with indirect sunlight. If the conditions are ideal, the cutting should develop roots within a few weeks, after which it can be transplanted into a larger container or directly into the garden.