How to grow Skimmia in the UK
Skimmia japonica
Skimmia (Skimmia japonica) is a flower that grows well in UK gardens. Need male AND female plants for berries. 'Reevesiana' is self-fertile. This guide covers when and how to sow Skimmia, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
Type
Flowers
Difficulty
Easy — good for beginners
Position
dappled shade
Sow
spring
Harvest
—
When to sow & grow Skimmia
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct Plant | Nov | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Most well-drained soils with added organic matter
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5
- Position
- Sun or part shade depending on species
- Sowing depth
- Plant so the rootball top sits level with the soil
- Spacing
- Allow for mature spread
- Sowing
- Plant from containers spring or autumn; water in well
- Growing
- Water through the first two summers; mulch annually
- Harvest & upkeep
- Prune to shape after flowering; remove dead/crossing wood
- Watch for
- Generally tough; watch aphids and powdery mildew
Companion planting for Skimmia
No specific companion notes for this plant.
Grow Skimmia this year
Add Skimmia to your free 12-month plan and get watering & sowing reminders — no sign-up needed.
Skimmia FAQs
How much sun does Skimmia need?
Skimmia prefers dappled shade.
Is Skimmia easy to grow?
Easy — good for beginners. Need male AND female plants for berries. 'Reevesiana' is self-fertile.