Maintenance Landscaping Design

Skimmia japonica reevesiana is an evergreen plant that is native to Japan. It is a member of the Rutaceae family and is closely related to the citrus plants. The plant has glossy, dark green leaves and small, white flowers that bloom in the spring. The fruit of the skimmia japonica reevesiana is a red berry that is poisonous to humans but is enjoyed by birds.

Also called

• Blush skimmia
  
• Japanese skimmia
  
• Reeves' skimmia
  
• Skimmia japonica 'Reevesiana'
  
• Skimmia japonica 'Rubella'

Things to Know

• Skimmia japonica reevesiana is a species of skimmia native to Japan.
  
• It is an evergreen shrub growing to 1–2 m (3–6 ft) tall.
  
• The leaves are glossy dark green, elliptical, 5–10 cm (0–9 in) long and 2–4 cm (0.79–57 in) wide.
  
• The flowers are borne in panicles 5–10 cm (0–9 in) long, each flower white with a central mass of yellow stamens.
  
• The fruit is a red drupe 5–8 mm (0.20–0.31 in) diameter.
  
• Skimmia japonica reevesiana is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in temperate regions.
  
• It is tolerant of a wide range of soil types and exposure levels, and is effective as an evergreen hedge.
  
• It is also tolerant of coastal conditions.
  
• Skimmia japonica reevesiana is often used as a bonsai subject.
  
• It is also used in traditional Japanese medicine.

Related plant:
Skimmia Reevesiana

Planting Process

1. For skimmia japonica reevesiana, first step is to choose the right plant. You should go for a plant that has healthy leaves and is disease free.
   
2. The next step is to find the right location for planting skimmia japonica reevesiana. It is best to choose an area that gets partial sun and is not too windy.
   
3. Once you have selected the location, the next step is to prepare the soil. For skimmia japonica reevesiana, the soil should be well-drained and rich in organic matter. You can also add some compost to the soil before planting.
   
4. After the soil is prepared, the next step is to plant skimmia japonica reevesiana. You should plant the seedlings at least 18 inches apart.
   
5. Once the seedlings are planted, the next step is to water them regularly. Skimmia japonica reevesiana needs to be kept moist but not too wet.
   
6. The next step is to fertilize skimmia japonica reevesiana. You can use any organic fertilizer or you can also use a slow-release fertilizer.
   
7. The next step is to prune skimmia japonica reevesiana. You should prune the plant in late winter or early spring.
   
8. The next step is to protect skimmia japonica reevesiana from pests and diseases. You can use any organic pest control methods or you can also use chemical pesticides.
   
9. The next step is to harvest skimmia japonica reevesiana. You can harvest the plant in late spring or early summer.
   
10. The last step is to enjoy your skimmia japonica reevesiana. You can use it in any way you like.

Related plant:
Skimmia

Soil Requirement

About soil condition, the skimmia japonica reevesiana prefers humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil in partial to full shade. It's quite tolerant of heavy clay soils and of dryness once established.

Light condition

So, like the other skimmias, skimmia japonica reevesiana is a shade-loving plant that enjoys partial sun exposure. It prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sun, especially in the cooler months of the year. If you live in a hot climate, it's best to give this plant some protection from the afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch.

The Temperature

The temperature condition for skimmia japonica reevesiana is that it prefers cool to cold temperatures and does not like to be in heat for long periods of time. The plant will do well in full sun to partial shade and prefers a moist, well-drained soil.

Humidity Aspect

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is between 40 to 60%. If the environment is too dry, the leaves may start to turn brown and drop off. If the humidity is too high, the leaves may start to yellow.

Fertilizer Requirement

About fertilizer, usually the plant does not need too much fertilizer, and using a balanced fertilizer is fine. An organic fertilizer is good for the plant. The key is to not over-fertilize because it can cause problems with the roots. With too much fertilizer, the roots can't get the nutrients they need and the plant can't absorb water.

About light

Pruning is an important part of keeping your skimmia japonica reevesiana healthy and looking its best. Prune in early spring, before new growth begins. remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Cut back any branches that are rubbing against each other, or crossing over each other. Thin out congested areas to promote air circulation.

Plant Propagation

Propagation of skimmia japonica reevesiana is typically done through stem cuttings taken from semi-ripe wood in late summer. The cuttings should be about 6 inches long and have several leaves. They should be placed in a pot with moist potting mix and kept in a shady spot until new growth appears.

Growth Rate

Usually, the plant growth rate is between three and six inches a year. If you want a plant that will fill a space quickly, this is not the one for you. The plant does best in full sun, but will tolerate some shade. It is deer resistant and drought tolerant once established.

The Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are aphids, whiteflies, and mealybugs. These pests are attracted to the plant because of its sweet nectar. To get rid of these pests, you can use a horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.

List to Know

• Remember to keep the plant well watered, especially during hot weather.
  
• Skimmia japonica Reevesiana is a relatively slow grower. Be patient!
  
• Place the plant in an area with bright, indirect light.
  
• The plant prefers acidic soil, so be sure to use a soil mix with a pH of 5 or lower.
  
• Add organic matter to the soil to help retain moisture.
  
• Mulch around the base of the plant to help prevent weeds and conserve moisture.
  
• Prune the plant annually to encourage new growth and shape the plant.
  
• Protect the plant from strong winds, which can damage the delicate leaves.
  
• The plant is relatively tolerant of pests and diseases, but aphids can be a problem. Check the plant regularly and treat with an insecticide if necessary.
  
• Enjoy the beautiful clusters of white flowers that appear in spring!

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Source:
Japanese Skimmia - Skimmia japonica - PNW Plants
Skimmia japonica - UDBG
JC Raulston Arboretum - Photographs - Skimmia-japonica-v-reevesiana ...