Skimmia japonica 'Rubella' (m)

Common name: skimmia

Description: A compact evergreen shrub grown chiefly for its striking clusters of deep red flower buds, which form in autumn and glow through the winter months before opening to fragrant creamy-white flowers in spring. The glossy, dark green leaves are edged with red when young. As a male form, it produces no berries itself but is an excellent pollinator for female skimmias such as 'Pabella'.

Other benefits: low maintenance, outstanding winter bud colour, excellent pollinator for female skimmias, tolerant of shade and pollution

Wildlife attraction: bees

Height & spread (approx.) at 10 years: 0.7m x 0.7m

Position: partial to full shade; some sun tolerated with shelter

Soil pH: acid to neutral

Moisture: moist but well-drained

Winter hardiness: hardy to around -15°C