Hedges Direct 
Skimmia Japonica 'Rubella' 20/30cm 5L pot Skimmia Japonica 'Rubella'
Out of stock
Key Features
EVERGREEN
SLOW GROWING
HAS FLOWERS (White)
FRAGRANCED
Seasonal Availablity
- JAN
- FEB
- MAR
- APR
- MAY
- JUN
- JUL
- AUG
- SEP
- OCT
- NOV
- DEC
Description
Skimmia japonica 'Rubella' is a highly decorative evergreen shrub valued for its vibrant deep red flower buds that appear from autumn and last through winter, providing colour and interest when most plants are dormant. In spring, the buds open into clusters of small creamy-white fragrant flowers, adding beauty and scent to the garden.
This compact, slow-growing shrub forms a dense mound of glossy dark green foliage, making it an excellent choice for shaded borders, woodland gardens, and container planting. Its year-round foliage combined with colourful winter buds ensures consistent seasonal interest.
'Rubella' is a male Skimmia variety, meaning it produces especially abundant flower buds but does not produce berries. It also makes an excellent pollinator partner for female Skimmia varieties if berry production is desired elsewhere in the garden.
Hardy and easy to grow, Skimmia thrives in partial to full shade and prefers moist, well-drained acidic to neutral soil. It is particularly well suited to low-light areas, patio containers, and sheltered garden borders.
Supplied at 20–30cm in height in a 5L pot, this well-established shrub is ready to plant and will quickly develop into a compact, ornamental feature.
Evergreen ornamental shrub
Deep red winter flower buds
Fragrant creamy-white spring flowers
Glossy dark green foliage year-round
Excellent for shade and woodland planting
Ideal for borders, containers, and low-maintenance gardens
Compact and slow growing
Supplied 20–30cm in a 5L pot
Position:
Plant in partial shade or full shade in a sheltered position.
Planting:
Prefers moist, well-drained acidic to neutral soil. Avoid very alkaline soils.
Watering & Feeding:
Water regularly during establishment and dry periods. Feed in spring with an ericaceous fertiliser.
Pruning:
Minimal pruning required. Lightly trim after flowering if shaping is needed.
Winter Care:
Fully hardy in the UK and tolerant of cold winter temperatures.
Q: Does Skimmia 'Rubella' produce berries?
No, it is a male variety, valued mainly for its colourful winter buds and flowers.
Q: When does it flower?
Flowers appear in spring, following the colourful winter buds.
Q: Is it suitable for shade?
Yes, Skimmia grows very well in partial or full shade.
Q: Can it be grown in containers?
Yes, it is excellent for patio pots and shaded container displays.
Q: Is it evergreen?
Yes-it keeps its glossy green foliage all year round.
Vital Plant Information
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Step 1
Root Grow & Fertiliser
Ensure you buy root grow and fertiliser with your plants at the time of purchase
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Step 2
Prepare Your Planting Area
Make sure your planting area is in good condition and suitable for planting
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Step 3
Plant & Feed
Plant with root grow & the second feed. Support plants if necessary. Water regularly