Japanese Skimmia
Skimmia japonica
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
48 inches
Width
60 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
6, 7, 8
Water
Medium
Humidity
Moderate
Lifespan
Long-lived shrub
Native To
Japan, China, Southeast Asia
Toxicity
Berries are toxic if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Skimmia japonica is a slow-growing, dome-shaped evergreen shrub native to Japan and China. It is prized for its aromatic leaves, fragrant spring flowers, and showy winter berries on female plants. This species is dioecious, meaning male and female flowers grow on separate plants. A male plant (like 'Rubella') is required to pollinate female plants for berry production. Male plants often have showier flowers.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a site with partial to full shade and protection from winter winds.
- Amend soil with compost to ensure it is rich and well-drained.
- Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball.
- Set the plant so the top of the root ball is level with the soil.
- Backfill with amended soil and water thoroughly.
- Apply a 2-inch layer of mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Plant at least one male for every 3-5 female plants to ensure a spectacular display of red berries.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Plant in acidic, humus-rich, well-drained soil.
- Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry spells.
- Protect from harsh winter sun and wind to prevent leaf scorch.
- Plant both male and female varieties for berry production.
Don't
- Do not plant in alkaline (high pH) soil, which causes yellow leaves.
- Avoid planting in full sun, which will scorch the foliage.
- Don't let the soil dry out completely.
- Avoid heavy pruning, as it flowers on old wood.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Japanese Skimmia questions
What zones can Japanese Skimmia grow in?
Japanese Skimmia is hardy in USDA Zones 6–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Japanese Skimmia deer resistant?
Yes — Japanese Skimmia is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Japanese Skimmia bloom?
Japanese Skimmia typically blooms in mid-spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Japanese Skimmia need full sun?
Japanese Skimmia does best in part shade.
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Japanese Skimmia with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
