shrub · design plant record

Skimmia japonica

Japanese skimmia

A compact evergreen foliage layer for an acidic, shaded setting.

Photographs show the source plant or captioned cultivar, season and setting. They do not document one of our illustrative garden layouts as a built project.

Height at maturity

0.61–2.13 m (2–7 ft)

Spread at maturity

0.91–1.52 m (3–5 ft)

Light

Part shade / Shade

Moisture

Moist, draining soil

Source-reported USDA zones

7–8 · verify subzone and cultivar

Principal seasonal role

Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter

Fit it to the site

Rich, acidic, moist but well-drained soil with shelter from full sun.

Full sun can scorch leaves; red berries are poisonous and are not an edible garden feature.

Keep the care in the decision

For berries, check plant sex and pollination partners at purchase.

Origin & safety checks

Southern Russia Far East, Japan to Taiwan. Confirm local native range and restrictions.

The source flags poisonous parts. Do not ingest this ornamental plant. Pet safety and edible uses are not assessed; verify the exact botanical name with a suitable local authority.

Check current invasive restrictions with your local plant-health or extension authority. For pets, use the exact botanical name in a veterinary toxicity reference; for potential ingestion or exposure, get appropriate professional advice rather than relying on a design guide.