How to Grow Skimmia Japonica Rubella - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team / 2024

Skimmia japonica rubella is a plant that is native to Japan. It is an evergreen shrub that can grow to be about 3-5 feet tall. The leaves of the plant are dark green and have a leathery texture. The flowers of the skimmia japonica rubella are white and grow in clusters. The berries of the plant are red and are about the size of a pea.

How to Grow Skimmia Japonica Rubella - Plant Care & Tips

Also called

skimmia japonica
skimmia japonica rubella
skimmia japonica f. rubella
skimmia japonica var. rubella
skimmia japonica 'Rubella'

Things to Know

Skimmia japonica rubella is an evergreen shrub that is native to Japan.
It can grow to a height of 3-6 feet and has a spreading habit.
The leaves are dark green and glossy, and the flowers are white with a strong fragrance.
Skimmia japonica rubella blooms from late winter to early spring.
The fruits are red berries that are poisonous to humans but attractive to birds.
Skimmia japonica rubella is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens.
It is tolerant of shade and prefers a moist, well-drained soil.
Skimmia japonica rubella is susceptible to scale insects and aphids.
It is generally disease-free but can sometimes be affected by powdery mildew.
Skimmia japonica rubella can be propagated by seed, cuttings, or division.

Related plant:
Skimmia Reevesiana

Planting Process

For skimmia japonica rubella, first step is to choose a location. Pick a spot that gets partial sun to full shade and has good drainage.
Skimmia japonica rubella can be started from seed, but it is easier to propagate from cuttings.
Fill a planting container with a well-draining potting mix.
Take 4-6 inch cuttings from a healthy skimmia japonica rubella plant.
Remove the bottom leaves from the cuttings and dip the cut ends into rooting hormone powder.
Insert the cuttings into the potting mix and firm the mix around the base of the cutting.
Water the cuttings well and place the container in a shady spot.
Keep the soil moist and in a few weeks, the cuttings should start to root.
Once the cuttings have rooted, transplant them into individual pots filled with a well-draining potting mix.
Skimmia japonica rubella can be planted in the garden in spring or fall. Choose a location that gets partial sun to full shade and has good drainage.

Related plant:
Skimmia Rubella

Soil Requirement

About soil condition, Skimmia japonica rubella prefers well-drained, fertile soil, and full sun to partial shade. It also does well in light shade. The soil should be kept moist, but not soggy. If the plant is in too much sun, the leaves will scorch.

About light

Not too different with other skimmias, the skimmia japonica rubella does best in full sun to partial shade. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of soils, though it prefers ones that are moist and well-drained. As long as it gets enough sun, this plant will thrive and produce its beautiful, fragrant flowers.

The Temperature

The temperature condition that is most favorable for the growth of skimmia japonica rubella is a warm climate. This plant is not tolerant of cold weather and frost. It grows best in an environment where the temperature is around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature drops below 50 degrees, the plant will begin to experience damage.

Ideal Humidity

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is between 40 to 60%. If the humidity is too low, the leaves may turn brown and drop off. If the humidity is too high, the plant may become susceptible to fungal diseases.

Fertilizer Requirement

Mentioning fertilizer, this type of plant does best with a fertilizer that is high in nitrogen. An all-purpose fertilizer will do the trick. Be sure to water the plant regularly, as it does not like to be too dry. The roots of the plant are very sensitive, so make sure the soil is not too compacted.

Plant Pruning

Pruning Skimmia Japonica Rubella is best done in late winter to early spring. This plant can tolerate quite a bit of pruning, so don't be afraid to cut it back. If the plant is overgrown, you can cut it all the way back to the ground. It will regrow quickly.

Plant Propagation

Propagation of skimmia japonica rubella is typically done through rooting of semi-hardwood or hardwood cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from new growth that is still relatively soft, and then placed in a moist, well-drained soil mix. Rooting hormone can be applied to help promote root growth. Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted into individual pots or into the garden.

Plant Growth

Usually, the plant growth rate quickly, with some able to add more than a foot of new growth in a single season. However, the size and shape of the final plant depends on the specific variety. Some grow to only a few feet tall, while others can reach up to 20 feet in height.

Basic Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are scale, mites, and aphids. These pests can cause leaf discoloration, stunted growth, and even death. To control these pests, regular applications of insecticidal soap or horticultural oil are effective.

Tips on Growing

Do not forget to water your skimmia japonica rubella regularly. The plant likes moist, but not waterlogged, soil.
Place your skimmia in a spot where it will receive partial to full sun.
Fertilize your skimmia japonica rubella every few weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Cut back the plant in early spring to encourage new growth.
Divide the plant every few years to keep it healthy.
Be on the lookout for aphids, which can damage the plant.
Skimmia japonica rubella is generally resistant to diseases.
The plant can tolerate cold temperatures, but may lose its leaves in very cold weather.
Skimmia japonica rubella is a slow-growing plant, so be patient!
Enjoy the beautiful evergreen leaves and clusters of white