Skimmia laureola female
A slow-growing evergreen shrub to 2m high, with an open habit and aromatic leathery green leaves, held in clusters at the tips of the stems. Small, rounded clusters of yellow-green flowers are produced in spring. These plants produce female flowers which, if pollinated, are followed by bright red berries in the autumn
1.5-2.5 metres
1.5-2.5 metres
| Season | Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | ||||
| Summer | ||||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
Grow in moderately fertile, moist but well drained soil, in light to full shade; prefers acidic to neutral soils but will tolerate alkaline soils where there is plenty of humus. Plants may become chlorotic on poor, dry soil or in too much sun. These plants produce female flowers, plant alongside male plants to ensure pollination and berries
Propagate by seed, sown in containers in a cold frame in autumn, or by semi-ripe cuttings in late summer
Minimal pruning required, see pruning group 8 (evergreens) if necessary
May be susceptible to scale insects, and to vine weevil when grown in containers
May be susceptible to Phytophthora and honey fungus