Thompson & Morgan Skimmia japonica ‘Rubella’ is a compact, evergreen shrub, popular for borders an...Thompson & Morgan Skimmia japonica ‘Rubella’ is a compact, evergreen shrub, popular for borders and patio containers, providing year-round colour and interest. This robust, long-lasting shrub is ideal for beginners and shady spots. It's a male clone with glossy, aromatic leaves, featuring red buds in winter that bloom into fragrant white flowers in spring. Grow in dappled or full shade in moderately fertile, well-drained, neutral to acidic soil. Avoid full sun to prevent leaf yellowing. For containers, use a soil-based compost mixed with ericaceous compost. Pruning is minimal; trim lightly after flowering and remove dead or damaged growth. Suitable for patios, cottage gardens, scented gardens, wildlife gardens, low maintenance gardens, and woodland gardens. Hardy and reaching up to 120cm (47.2in) in height and spread. May not have flowers in the first season. Supplied as 2 x Skimmia Japonica Rubella plants in 9cm pots.
This guide is for anyone looking to add the beautiful Skimmia Japonica Rubella to their garden. This evergreen shrub offers year-round color and interest, thriving even in shady spots. A key benefit is its low-maintenance nature, making it ideal for beginners. Keep in mind that it may not flower in its first season.
All features
Model Part Number
Skimmia Japonica Rubella
Brand
Thompson & Morgan
Extended Product Information
FAQs
How much sun does Skimmia Japonica Rubella need?
It thrives in dappled or full shade. Avoid planting it in direct sunlight.
What type of soil is best?
It prefers moderately fertile, well-drained, neutral to acidic soil.
How often should I water my Skimmia?
Water regularly, especially during dry periods, but avoid waterlogging the soil.
When should I prune my Skimmia?
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged growth.
Is Skimmia Japonica Rubella suitable for containers?
Yes, it is suitable for containers. Use a soil-based compost mixed with ericaceous compost.
How tall and wide does it grow?
It can reach up to 120cm (47.2in) in height and spread.
Does Skimmia Japonica Rubella require fertilizer?
Yes, apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring.
Troubleshooting
Yellowing leaves
Ensure the plant is not in full sun and check that the soil is not too alkaline. Consider moving the plant to a shadier location or amending the soil with ericaceous compost.
Poor flowering
Ensure the plant is getting enough shade and that it is not being over-fertilized. Consider adding a phosphorus-rich fertilizer to encourage flowering.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Year-round colour and interest.
Suitable for shady locations.
Low maintenance requirements.
Fragrant spring blooms.
Compact size, ideal for various spaces.
Cons
May not flower in the first season.
Requires well-drained soil.
Avoids full sun exposure.
Specific soil type preference (neutral to acidic).
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Planting: Plant in dappled or full shade, avoiding direct sunlight. Ensure the soil is moderately fertile, well-drained, and neutral to acidic.
Soil: For containers, use a soil-based compost mixed with ericaceous compost.
Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Pruning: Pruning is minimal. Trim lightly after flowering to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged growth.
Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring to encourage healthy growth and flowering.
Compatibility: This shrub pairs well with other shade-loving plants, such as ferns, hostas, and other woodland plants.
Care: Protect from harsh winter winds, especially in colder regions. Mulch around the base to help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.