Skimmia Rubella – 5 Litre

5 Litre Pot

• RHS Award of Garden Merit
• Position: Full, partial shade
• Soil: Moist, well drained
• Growth Rate: Slow
• Flowering Period: April-May
• Hardiness: H5
• Eventual Height: 1-1.5m
• Eventual Spread: 1-1.5m

Skimmia Rubella, or simply ‘Skimmia’ and holder of the much coveted RHS Award of Garden Merit,  is a small evergreen shrub that is native to the Himalayan regions of Asia. It belongs to the Rutaceae family, which includes citrus trees. This plant is often grown for its attractive foliage and clusters of dark red flower buds that add a pop of colour to gardens in late Winter and early Spring.

The leaves are glossy and leathery, with a dark green colour that can turn reddish in cold weather. They are arranged in an alternate pattern along the stem and have a pointed, oval shape that tapers to a fine point. The leaves can grow up to 8cm long and 3cm wide.  The flowers are borne in clusters on the ends of the stems and are small and inconspicuous, but they are surrounded by showy red buds that add a splash of colour to the plant. The buds can persist for several weeks before opening into fragrant, creamy-white flowers that are about 5mm across.

This Skimmia prefers a sheltered spot in full or partial shade, with moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It is tolerant of a wide range of soil types and can even grow in heavy clay soils. The plant is hardy and can tolerate temperatures down to about -15°C.

Overall, this is a versatile and attractive shrub that can add interest to gardens year-round. Its glossy foliage, fragrant flowers, and showy red buds make it a popular choice for borders, containers, and woodland gardens.

How to care for your Skimmia Rubella

• Light: Prefers partial shade to full shade. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can damage its leaves.
• Soil: Prefers moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, but it does not tolerate waterlogged or extremely dry soils.
• Watering: Needs regular watering, especially during dry spells. Water deeply and regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Be sure to avoid getting water on the foliage, as this can cause fungal diseases.
• Fertiliser: Does not require a lot of fertiliser, but a light feeding in early Spring can help promote healthy growth. Use a balanced fertiliser or a slow-release fertiliser specifically formulated for acid-loving plants.
• Pruning: Does not require regular pruning, but you can trim it lightly in early Spring to control its shape and size. Remove any dead or damaged wood and thin out overcrowded branches.
• Winter care: It is hardy, but it may benefit from some Winter protection in colder areas. Mulch around the base of the plant to protect the roots and cover with a frost blanket or burlap if temperatures drop below -15°C.

By following these care tips, you can help ensure that your Skimmia Rubella stays healthy and beautiful for years to come.