The Story
Plant Bio
Skimmia × confusa is a dense, dome-shaped evergreen shrub hybrid of Asian origin, valued for its aromatic foliage and tolerance of deep shade. The species forms a compact mound of leathery, lance-shaped leaves that remain lustrous throughout the year.
'Kew Green' is a male clone distinguished by its large, terminal clusters of sweetly fragrant, chartreuse-to-creamy-white flowers that open in spring. Because it produces only male flowers, it will never bear fruit, but it serves as an exceptional pollinator for female skimmia selections nearby.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
48"
Width
60"
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Regular
Humidity
Moderate
Lifespan
Long-lived
Native To
Asia (parent species)
Toxicity
Minor toxicity if ingested
Bloom period
Spring
In flower about 3 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a planting site in partial to full shade, sheltered from harsh afternoon sun and strong winds.
- Amend the soil with generous amounts of organic matter, such as compost or leaf mold, to ensure a rich, moisture-retentive medium.
- Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and set the plant at the same depth it was growing in its container.
- Water thoroughly after planting and apply a layer of organic mulch to conserve moisture and keep the root zone cool.
Pro Tip
Avoid pruning into old, leafless wood as it responds poorly; instead, lightly trim the stems immediately after spring flowering to maintain a tidy shape.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry summer spells.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer or a top-dressing of organic mulch in early spring.
- Plant in a shaded location to protect the glossy foliage from sun scorch.
Don't
- Do not allow the soil to dry out completely, as the plant has low drought tolerance.
- Do not plant in heavy, poorly drained clay or areas prone to standing water.
- Do not prune heavily or cut back into old, leafless wood.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| 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
Kew Green Skimmia questions
What zones can Kew Green Skimmia grow in?
Kew Green Skimmia is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Kew Green Skimmia deer resistant?
Yes — Kew Green Skimmia is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Kew Green Skimmia bloom?
Kew Green Skimmia typically blooms in spring through spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Kew Green Skimmia need full sun?
Kew Green Skimmia does best in part shade.
More Skimmia to compare
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Kew Green 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.