Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Skimmia japonica (Male)
Japanese Skimmia (Male)
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- Family
- Rutaceae
- Height
- 2 to 5 feet
- Width
- 3 to 6 feet
- Flower color
- White, often fragrant
- Foliage color
- Glossy dark green, evergreen
- Bloom time
- Spring
- Light
- Prefers part shade to full shade
- Water
- Moderate
- Maintenance
- Low; slow-growing and benefits from pruning to shape or control size
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 6 to 9
- Wildlife
- Attracts pollinators, including bees, due to its fragrant flowers
About this plant
Skimmia japonica (Male) is an evergreen shrub appreciated for its dense, rounded form and glossy, aromatic foliage. In early to mid-spring, it produces clusters of small, fragrant white flowers, often tinged with pink, adding a delicate charm to the garden. While male plants do not produce berries, they are essential pollinators for female Skimmia, enhancing the ornamental value of nearby berry-bearing specimens.
Native to woodland areas of Japan, China, and Southeast Asia, Skimmia japonica thrives in shaded or semi-shaded locations, making it a versatile choice for gardens with less sunlight. Its year-round foliage and seasonal blooms make it a popular option for mixed borders, foundation plantings, or container displays.
Works well in
Shade Gardens · Borders · Containers · Woodland Gardens
Companion plants
Leucothoe · Yew · Viola · Astilbe · Hellebores · Ferns
Design tip
Include a male Skimmia within a grouping of female plants so its spring flowers can provide the pollen needed for berry production nearby. Its dense evergreen form blends easily into the planting, allowing the berry-bearing females to provide the more prominent autumn and winter display.
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