Female Japanese Skimmia

Female Japanese Skimmia (Skimmia japonica)

Female Japanese Skimmia (Skimmia japonica), also known simply as Japanese Skimmia, is a compact, evergreen shrub grown for its fragrant spring blooms and bright red berries that persist through winter. This female variety requires a nearby male plant for pollination but rewards the garden with striking fruit display, refined texture, and year-round foliage that thrives in shade.

Distinctive Features

This slow-growing shrub typically reaches 3 to 5 feet tall and wide with a dense, rounded habit. In spring, it produces clusters of fragrant white flowers that develop from pink buds. When pollinated by a male skimmia, the blooms give way to vibrant red berries that ripen in late summer and persist into winter. Its deep green, leathery leaves remain attractive throughout the year and emit a pleasant aroma when crushed.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Partial shade to full shade; best with protection from afternoon sun
• Soil Type: Moist, well-drained, organically rich soil
• Soil pH: Slightly acidic
• Water Needs: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 6 to 9

Ideal Uses

• Focal point in shaded foundation beds or borders
• Accent shrub in woodland or cottage gardens
• Paired with male skimmia for ornamental berries
• Container planting for patios and shaded entrances
• Evergreen structure in low-maintenance landscapes

Low Maintenance Care

• Plant near a male skimmia to ensure berry production
• Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape
• Mulch to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature
• Fertilize in spring with a formula for acid-loving plants
• Water during dry periods, especially in summer months

Why Choose Female Japanese Skimmia

• Bright red berries provide winter color and interest
• Fragrant spring flowers enhance seasonal appeal
• Attractive evergreen foliage year-round
• Performs well in shade where few shrubs thrive
• A versatile focal point when paired with a male pollinator

Female Japanese Skimmia brings multi-season beauty and lasting structure to the shade garden�making it an excellent focal point when planted alongside a male counterpart for reliable berry production and year-round ornamental value.