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Skimmia japonica Sensation ('Whitebolwi'PBR)
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

An upright, bushy evergreen shrub with leathery, dark green foliage and clusters of small, fragrant, star-shaped white flowers in spring, followed by bright red berries

Synonyms
Skimmia japonica 'Whitebolwi'PBR
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
10–20 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Sand
Loam
Clay
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Acid, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring White Green Red
Summer Green
Autumn
Winter Green
Position
  • Full shade
  • Partial shade
Aspect

North–facing or East–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Rutaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Potentially harmful
Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Genus

Skimmia are compact evergreen shrubs with simple, aromatic leaves and terminal panicles of small white or yellowish flowers followed, on fertilised female plants, by shiny red berries; most have male and female flowers on separate plants

Name status

Trade

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in moderately fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil in light or deep shade. Can become chlorotic on poor, dry soils or if exposed to too much sun

Propagation

Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings with bottom heat in late summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Patio and container plants
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Low Maintenance
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Pruning group 8, if necessary

Pests

May be susceptible to scale insects and fruit tree red spider mite

Diseases

May be susceptible to Phytophthora and honey fungus

Get involved

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