Skimmia japonica 'Rubella'
 
Curiosities about the Skimmia 
• The first Skimmia arrived in Europe in 1838 and ended up in the greenhouses of Kew Gardens. 
• The Latin name was coined in 1784 from 'Miyama shikimi', the Japanese name for Skimmia. 
• The most common cultivar of Skimmia japonica is the 'Rubella' with its red buds. 


 
Origin 
Skimmia is a member of the Rutaceae family, which also includes citrus trees. The family resemblance is clear in the leaves: if you crush them, they release a citrus fragrance. 
In the wild, Skimmia grows in the forests of China and other parts of Asia, such as the Himalayas. However, the featured version was grown in a greenhouse.
Skimmia is offered with colored buds in November. These buds will form in August and retain their wonderful color until they bloom in April.

Skimmia is a perfect transition plant between all the reds and oranges of early fall and the festivities of December. Stand it alongside other fall hits like heather and ivy, and accessorize the display with some accessories to houseplants that match the season, such as lanterns, galoshes, and a rake. As Skimmia is a popular entryway plant (one on each side of the door), it's a good idea to display the plants symmetrically, already placed in an attractive pot or zinc bucket. 
 
care tips 
• Skimmia prefers to be in the shade, where the berries develop better. 
• The plant prefers slightly acidic soil, such as rhododendron soil. 
• If the leaves turn yellow, the soil is not acidic enough. 
• Skimmia does not like to have wet roots and therefore likes to be planted near trees that extract a lot of moisture from the soil. In pots, water must be able to drain. 
• It is better not to cut the branches of the plant, as this will harm the next flowering. 
• The Skimmia is moderately resistant and only needs to be protected in wool or bubble wrap in places with hard frosts.