Skimmia japonica (Male) is a compact evergreen shrub with dense, aromatic foliage and fragrant white spring flowers. While this male variety does not produce berries, it plays a crucial role in pollinating nearby female Skimmia plants so they can develop their iconic red fruit. With its tidy growth habit and tolerance for shade, it’s an excellent, low-maintenance option for foundation plantings, shaded borders, and containers.

Why Choose Skimmia japonica (Male)?

• Fragrant Blooms: Clusters of creamy white flowers emerge from pink buds in early spring, offering subtle fragrance and early-season interest.

• Essential for Pollination: This male variety is required for female Skimmia plants to set fruit. One male can pollinate multiple females.

• Year-Round Interest: Glossy, leathery dark green leaves offer winter appeal and emit a citrus-like aroma when crushed.

• Perfect for Shade: Thrives in part to full shade—ideal for foundation beds, woodland gardens, or underplanting.

• Low Maintenance: Slow-growing, naturally compact, and deer-resistant, making it easy to care for in the right conditions.

• Container-Friendly: Performs well in pots with acidic, well-drained soil—great for small spaces or patios.

Cultivation Tips

• Light: Prefers partial to full shade; avoid hot afternoon sun, which can scorch the foliage.

• Soil: Requires moist, well-drained, acidic soil rich in organic matter. Avoid alkaline or soggy soils.

• Water: Keep soil evenly moist, especially during establishment. Mulch to retain soil moisture.

• Fertilizer: Use an acid-loving plant fertilizer in spring if needed.

• Pruning: Little required. Prune after flowering to shape if necessary.

• Spacing: Plant 3–5 feet apart in the landscape. For pollination, position male plants within 10–15 feet of females.

Design Ideas

• Use as a pollinator companion for female Skimmia in mixed foundation plantings.

• Pair with ferns, azaleas, or hostas for a lush, layered woodland effect.

• Plant in containers on shaded patios or entryways.

• Works beautifully as a low hedge or evergreen accent in shaded borders.

• Combine with early-blooming bulbs for seasonal contrast.

Environmental Impact

• Supports pollination of female Skimmia japonica, enabling fruit production and seed development.

• Provides cover and structure in shaded garden spaces year-round.

• Deer-resistant, reducing the need for chemical repellents or fencing.

• Excellent for low-impact, shade-tolerant landscapes and urban gardens.

Since Skimmia japonica is not a native species, here are three native alternatives available at Bumbee’s that provide ecological benefits:

• Aquilegia canadensis – Wild Columbine: Red and yellow blooms attract hummingbirds and native bees; thrives in partial shade
• Arctostaphylos uva ursi – Bearberry: Evergreen groundcover with spring blooms and red berries that provide food for birds
• Thelypteris noveboracensis – New York Fern: Shade-loving native fern that offers ground cover and shelter for small wildlife