Japanese skimmia - Skimmia japonica (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Japanese skimmia

Japanese skimmia (Skimmia japonica) is an evergreen shrub native to East and Southeast Asia. This plant is composed of aromatic cream-colored flowers, crimson berries, and velvety deep green foliage. These decorative features are aesthetically pleasing when the plant is placed in shady environments. This low maintenance sweet-scented plant thrives in moist, well-drained soil in moderate to full shade.

Scientific classification

Species

Japanese skimmia (Skimmia japonica)

Maples, mangos, mahogany, citrus, and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Perennial

Lifespan

6 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Red, Burgundy, White

Fruit Color

White, Pink, Yellow

Flower Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

10 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Japanese skimmia

Distribution of Japanese skimmia

Distribution Map

Japanese skimmia is indigenous to the temperate regions of East Asia, where it thrives in forested landscapes. The plant has been successfully introduced to various other locations, predominantly in temperate zones. As a result of its adaptability and ornamental appeal, japanese skimmia is now also widely cultivated in gardens and landscapes beyond its native range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Woods

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Japanese skimmia is valued for the year-round interest it provides, particularly supplying an injection of color during the dull winter months when its long-lasting red-colored flower buds remain on display. The pretty white spring flowers contrast against the dark foliage. This plant grows well in containers and can be used as a gap filler in borders. It is suitable for hedging as well as city gardens.

Interesting Facts

Japanese skimmia is a garden-worthy ornamental plant. It gives a summer interest to the garden with its lovely, fragrant flowers, while its bright red berries provide a beautiful view during the fall.

Name Story

Japanese skimmia: Japanese skimmia got its common English name from its Japanese name 'miyami shikimi'. The Japanese word 'shikimi' or 'ashiki-mi' can be translated as 'a bad, poisonous or harmful fruit'. This refers to all plants of the genus Skimmia.

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Japanese skimmia, including the following common varieties :

Japanese skimmia 'Perosa'Japanese skimmia 'Fragrans'Japanese skimmia 'Temptation'Japanese skimmia 'Nymans'Japanese skimmia 'Kew White'

Toxicity

Japanese skimmia poses a moderate toxicity risk to humans, cats, and dogs. All parts of the plant are toxic and can cause gastrointestinal distress (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) and more severe symptoms (headaches, dizziness). Immediate veterinary care is essential if pets ingest the plant. Caution is advised in environments with children or pets to prevent accidental ingestion. Japanese skimmia cannot be verified with sources.

Identify toxic plants in your garden

Find out what’s toxic and what’s safe for humans and pets.

Download the App for Free

Quickly Identify Japanese skimmia

Leaves: Elliptical, leathery, dark green with yellow-green underside, 2.5-5 inches (6.4-12.7 cm) long.

Flowers: Creamy-white to pink-tinged, 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) long, fragrant, star-shaped blooms.

Fruits: Small red drupes, 3/8 inches (1 cm) in diameter, clustered, ornamental, persists into winter.

Stem: Woody, reddish-brown, 0.5-1 inch (1.3-2.5 cm) diameter, multi-stemmed, mildly fragrant.

Bark: Green-tinged with reddish-purple undertones, smooth surface, modest girth, distinctive color fusion.

Identify plants with a snap

Instantly identify plants with AI: Snap a photo, and get accurate results within seconds.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Japanese skimmia

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

10 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Japanese skimmia thrives in moist woodlands, preferring consistently damp soil. Water every 1-2 weeks to avoid over-saturation. Typically grown outdoors for its evergreen qualities, japanese skimmia benefits from mulch to retain moisture and simulate its native habitat.

Fertilize: Japanese skimmia thrives with balanced fertilizers rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, applied seasonally in spring. Biannual feeding usually suffices, and it's crucial to distribute nutrients evenly in the soil while adhering to product guidelines to prevent root burn and accommodate growth changes.

Propagation: Japanese skimmia can be propagated via cuttings from healthy new growth with several leaves. Use a well-draining soil mix and maintain humidity until roots form. Dipping cut ends in rooting hormone can help. Water regularly and acclimate gradually once rooted.

Repotting: Japanese skimmia is a compact, evergreen shrub that should be repotted every 2-3 years in early spring using a slightly larger pot with good drainage. It prefers dappled light and consistent moisture post-repotting, but avoid overwatering for optimal growth and health.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free