Skimmia

Skimmias are valuable evergreen shrubs that provide colour and structure throughout the year, with particularly strong interest during autumn and winter. Their glossy foliage forms an attractive backdrop for clusters of fragrant white or creamy-yellow flowers in April and May. Colourful flower buds are held through winter, while berry-producing varieties can carry bright red fruits for many months.

Most Skimmias are either male (M) or female (F). To produce berries, female varieties usually need a compatible male planted nearby for pollination. Some varieties are self-fertile (SF), meaning a single plant can produce fruit, although berry displays may be heavier when a suitable male is grown close by.

Skimmias grow best in partial or full shade and will tolerate deeply shaded positions. Avoid planting them in strong, direct sunlight, as this can cause the foliage to become yellow or scorched. They prefer neutral to acidic soil, so incorporate ericaceous compost when planting. For containers, use a loam-based ericaceous compost such as John Innes Ericaceous.