Skimmia Japonica Kew White
Contents
Description
Skimmia Japonica Kew White is a popular shrub that belongs to the Rutaceae family. It is native to Japan, China, and Southeast Asia. It is a slow-growing evergreen shrub that can reach up to 1.5m in height and spread up to 1m wide. The plant has green leaves and produces small white flowers that have a sweet fragrance. The flowers bloom from late winter to early spring, and the plant produces red berries in autumn that last through winter. Skimmia Japonica Kew White is a popular choice for landscaping, particularly in shady areas.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Rutaceae |
| Genus | Skimmia |
Appearance
Skimmia Japonica Kew White has glossy green leaves that are lance-shaped and grow up to 10cm long. The leaves are arranged alternately along the stem. The plant produces small white flowers that are arranged in clusters at the end of the stem. The flowers bloom from late winter to early spring and have a sweet fragrance. The plant produces red berries in autumn that last through winter. The berries are poisonous and should not be ingested.
Care Guide
Skimmia Japonica Kew White is easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant prefers moist soil, but it should not be waterlogged. Water the plant regularly, particularly during hot and dry weather.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a slow-release fertilizer in spring and autumn.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun or full shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Skimmia Japonica Kew White is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Skimmia Japonica Kew White is generally pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to the following:
- Scale insects: These small pests can attach to the leaves and stems of the plant and suck the sap, causing the plant to weaken. They can be treated with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots to appear on the leaves of the plant. It can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
Skimmia Japonica Kew White is native to Japan, China, and Southeast Asia. It prefers shaded areas with moist soil. The plant is commonly used in landscaping and can be found in parks, gardens, and public spaces.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Skimmia Japonica Kew White poisonous?
A: Yes, the berries of Skimmia Japonica Kew White are poisonous and should not be ingested.
Q: How often should I water Skimmia Japonica Kew White?
A: Water the plant regularly, particularly during hot and dry weather. The plant prefers moist soil, but it should not be waterlogged.
Q: Can Skimmia Japonica Kew White tolerate full sun?
A: Yes, Skimmia Japonica Kew White can tolerate full sun or full shade, but it prefers partial shade.
Q: Is Skimmia Japonica Kew White hardy?
A: Yes, Skimmia Japonica Kew White is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 9.
Related Plants
- Skimmia Japonica Rubella
- Skimmia Japonica Fragrans
- Skimmia Japonica Reevesiana
References
- “Skimmia japonica ‘Kew White'” RHS Gardening, Royal Horticultural Society, https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/23838/Skimmia-japonica-Kew-White/Details. Accessed 25 Aug. 2021.
- “Skimmia japonica” Missouri Botanical Garden, http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c713. Accessed 25 Aug. 2021.
- “Skimmia japonica” Plantwise Knowledge Bank, CABI, https://www.plantwise.org/knowledgebank/datasheet/46376. Accessed 25 Aug. 2021.
