Skimmia japonica subsp. reevesiana – self fertile

Unusually for a skimmia, Skimmia japonica subsp. reevesiana is hermaphrodite, and will bear berries without another skimmia nearby; it will also tolerate slightly alkaline soil. It’s a small, slow-growing, evergreen shrub with a dense, mounded habit. The aromatic leaves are narrow, deep green and leathery, making the plant drought-resistant once established. In mid- to late spring, panicles of scented, creamy-white flowers open from red buds; these are a valuable nectar source for pollinators. In autumn, the flowers are followed by bright red berries, which often persist until the following spring – the birds leave them alone!  Hermaphrodite Japanese skimmia is a really easy, low-maintenance shrub for almost year-round colour in a shady spot in even the smallest garden.

Site: Tolerates exposure
Soil: Well drained, fairly light, humus-rich soil
Position: Partial shade or deep shade
Season of interest: All year
Hardiness: Fairly  hardy
Height: 39” (1m)  Spread: 39” (1m) in 10 years