How to Grow Skimmia Reevesiana - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2025

Skimmia reevesiana is an evergreen shrub with a erect, bushy habit. It has dark green, glossy leaves and clusters of small, white flowers in late spring. The flowers are followed by round, red fruits.

How to Grow Skimmia Reevesiana - Plant Care & Tips

Also known as

  • Japanese skimmia
  • Skimmia japonica
  • Broad-leaved skimmia
  • Skimmia obtusa
  • Reeves' skimmia

Things to Know

  • Skimmia reevesiana is an evergreen shrub.
  • It has dark green leaves.
  • It produces small, white flowers in spring.
  • The flowers are followed by red berries.
  • Skimmia reevesiana is native to China.
  • It was introduced to Europe in the early nineteenth century.
  • It is often grown as an ornamental plant.
  • It is tolerant of shade and prefers well-drained soil.
  • Skimmia reevesiana is susceptible to a range of pests and diseases.
  • It is considered to be an invasive species in some parts of the world.

How to Grow

  1. For skimmia reevesiana, first step is to find a shady location.
  2. Second, clear away any debris and loosen the topsoil.
  3. Third, dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the plant’s roots.
  4. Fourth, place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil.
  5. Fifth, water the plant deeply.
  6. Sixth, mulch around the plant to help retain moisture.
  7. Seventh, fertilize monthly using a balanced fertilizer.
  8. Eighth, prune away any damaged or diseased branches.
  9. Ninth, monitor for pests and diseases.
  10. Tenth, enjoy your skimmia reevesiana!

Related plant:
Skimmia Kew Green

Soil Requirement

About soil condition, skimmia reevesiana ( SOIL CONDITION ) like moderate to heavy soils that are well-drained. They are not overly fond of very alkaline soils. Skimmias are not drought tolerant once established, and will appreciate some additional water during extended dry periods. An organic mulch will help to keep the roots cool and moist.

Light condition

Just like other skimmia species, skimmia reevesiana require sun to partial shade to thrive. Too much sun will scorch the leaves, while too little sun will cause the plant to become leggy. The ideal spot for skimmia reevesiana is an area that receives morning sun and afternoon shade.

Ideal Temperature

The temperature conditions that are best for skimmia reevesiana are cool to cold temperatures. This plant is native to northern China and Japan, where the climate is cool to cold. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Skimmia reevesiana is a slow-growing evergreen shrub that can reach a height of 3-4 feet and a width of 2-3 feet. It has dark green leaves and small white flowers that bloom in the spring.

Humidity Requirement

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is between 60-70%. If the humidity level is too low, the leaves will start to turn brown and drop off. If the humidity is too high, the leaves will start to yellow and drop off.

Fertilizer Requirement

The fertilizer, this family of plant is the skimmia reevesiana, is a key to its success. It needs a lot of it and it needs to be applied regularly. The root system is also very important to the plant. It is deep and spreading and needs to be kept moist.

About light

Pruning is an important part of keeping your skimmia reevesiana healthy and looking its best. This evergreen shrub can be pruned to shape it, control its size, or remove any damaged or diseased branches. To prune your skimmia, start by removing any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Cut these branches back to the main stem or trunk of the plant. Next, shape the plant by pruning any branches that are too long or out of place. Finally, cut back any branches that are crowding or rubbing against other branches. Pruning your skimmia reevesiana regularly will keep it looking tidy and promote new growth.

The Propagation

Propagation of skimmia reevesiana is best done by rooting semi-ripe cuttings taken in late summer. The cuttings should be taken from the current year's growth and should be about 10-15cm (4-6in) long. Cuttings should be taken from the outside of the plant as these will be the most vigorous. Use a sharp knife or secateurs to make a clean cut just below a leaf node. Remove any flowers and flower buds and the lower leaves from the cutting. Dip the cutting into a rooting hormone and plant in a pot or container filled with moist, well-drained propagating compost. Place the pot or container in a propagator or seal inside a clear plastic bag to maintain high humidity. Keep at a temperature of 20-21C (68-70F). Rooting should take place within 4-6 weeks. Once rooted, pot on the cuttings into pots of John Innes No.2 compost and grow on in a light, cool place. Overwinter in a cool greenhouse or conservatory, watering sparingly to keep the compost just moist.

Growth Speed

Usually, the plant growth rate quickly, some varieties more quickly than others. Some may take a full growing season to reach their maximum potential, while others may take only a few weeks. In general, though, all skimmia reevesiana grow quickly and easily.

Common Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are powdery mildew, aphids, and scale. If you notice any of these problems on your plant, you should take action to solve the issue. Powdery mildew can be treated with a fungicide, while aphids and scale can be controlled with insecticidal soap.

Tips on Growing

  • Remember to plant your skimmia reevesiana in an acidic soil, as it cannot tolerate alkaline soils.
  • Skimmia reevesiana prefers partial shade to full shade, so choose a spot in your garden that receives filtered sunlight or dappled shade.
  • This plant is not drought-tolerant, so make sure to water it regularly, especially during hot weather.
  • Fertilize your skimmia reevesiana every few weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
  • Prune your plant regularly to shape it and encourage new growth.
  • Skimmia reevesiana is susceptible to powdery mildew, so take care to avoid wetting the leaves when watering.
  • This plant also attracts slugs and snails, so be sure to use appropriate baits or traps if needed.
  • Skimmia reevesiana can be

You May Like

  • Skimmia arborea is a species
  • Skimmia × confusa (also known as
  • Skimmia × confusa are also known
  • Skimmia × collingwoodii (synonym
  • Skimmia arborea
  • Skimmia × collingwoodii
  • Skimmia × confusa
  • Skimmia × collingwoodii ( confusa
  • Skimmia × confusa ( also known as
  • Skimmia × confusa are also known

Source:
Alkaloids and coumarins of Skimmia reevesiana
Skimmia reevesiana (Fortune) Fortune GRIN-Global
(PDF) Pollen morphology of the genus Skimmia (Rutaceae) and …

Richelle Author Photo
Reviewed & Published by Richelle
Submitted by our contributor
Shrubs Category