Japanese Skimmia

Japanese skimmia is a compact evergreen shrub in the Rutaceae family native to Japan and the Himalayas, reaching 3-5 feet tall with glossy, pinnate leaves and fragrant white or pink flowers clustered in terminal panicles. The plant is dioecious, with female plants producing bright red berries that persist through winter.

Skimmia japonica thrives in shade to part shade and prefers well-drained, humus-rich, acidic to neutral soil. Hardy to USDA zones 6b-9a, it is slow-growing and very low-maintenance. The fragrant spring flowers and persistent winter berries make it valuable for shade gardens. Both male and female plants are needed for fruit production.