Skimmia Japonica Rubella is a popular ornamental plant that is native to Japan and China. It belongs to the Rutaceae family and is a slow-growing evergreen shrub that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall and 1 meter wide. It is highly valued for its attractive foliage, beautiful flowers, and bright red berries that appear in winter.
Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Rutaceae |
| Genus | Skimmia |
Appearance
Skimmia Japonica Rubella has dark green glossy leaves that are leathery and lance-shaped, measuring about 7-15 cm long and 2-4 cm wide. It has a compact growth habit and produces clusters of small fragrant flowers that are pinkish-white in color and bloom in late winter or early spring. The flowers give way to bright red berries that remain on the plant for several months, providing a source of winter interest.
Care Guide
Skimmia Japonica Rubella is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:
- Water: Water your plant regularly, especially during the summer months. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant in spring and again in summer with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilization, as this can lead to leaf burn.
- Soil: Skimmia Japonica Rubella prefers well-drained, acidic soil. If your soil is alkaline, amend it with peat moss or other organic materials to lower the pH.
- Sunlight: Skimmia Japonica Rubella prefers partial shade to full shade. Avoid planting it in direct sunlight, as this can cause leaf burn.
- Hardiness Zones: Skimmia Japonica Rubella is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Skimmia Japonica Rubella is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to the following:
- Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing of the leaves and webbing on the plant. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Scale insects: These pests can cause yellowing of the leaves and a sticky residue on the plant. Treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and treat with a fungicide.
Habitat
Skimmia Japonica Rubella is native to Japan and China and grows in mountainous regions with well-drained soil. It prefers shady areas and can be found growing under trees or in forest understories. It is commonly grown in gardens as an ornamental plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Skimmia Japonica Rubella be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Skimmia Japonica Rubella can be grown in a container as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots and the soil is well-drained.
Q: How often should I prune my Skimmia Japonica Rubella?
A: Skimmia Japonica Rubella does not require frequent pruning, but you can prune it lightly after flowering to maintain its shape and size.
Q: Can Skimmia Japonica Rubella be used as a hedge?
A: Yes, Skimmia Japonica Rubella can be used as a low hedge or border plant, as it has a compact growth habit and responds well to pruning.
Q: How can I propagate Skimmia Japonica Rubella?
A: Skimmia Japonica Rubella can be propagated by taking semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer or early fall. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant in well-drained soil. Keep the soil moist and place the cuttings in a shaded area until they have rooted.
Related Plants
- Skimmia Japonica ‘Rubinetta’
- Skimmia Japonica ‘Fragrans’
- Skimmia Japonica ‘Veitchii’
- Skimmia Japonica ‘Foremanii’
References
- “Skimmia japonica ‘Rubella’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 16, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d410.
- “Skimmia Japonica.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 16, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/10951/skimmia-japonica/details.
- “Skimmia Japonica.” Gardening Know How. Accessed August 16, 2021. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/skimmia/skimmia-japonica.htm.
