About this product

Skimmia japonica 'Rubella' & 'Finchy' (Twins) – 5 Litre Pot

Skimmia japonica 'Rubella' & 'Finchy'

Supplied in a 5 litre pot | Approximate supplied height: 50cm | Two varieties planted together

Plant Highlights: Contrasting red and pale green winter flower buds • Glossy evergreen foliage • Fragrant white spring flowers • Compact, rounded growth • Suited to partial shade and sheltered containers

Overview

Skimmia japonica 'Rubella' & 'Finchy' (Twins) brings two complementary evergreen shrubs together in one pot for a particularly attractive autumn-to-spring display. 'Rubella' produces rich red flower buds, while 'Finchy' provides a softer pale green contrast. These decorative buds remain prominent through winter before opening into clusters of small, fragrant white flowers in spring. Glossy, dark green leaves provide a handsome backdrop throughout the year.

Naturally slow-growing and compact, this combination is well suited to smaller gardens, sheltered entranceways, woodland-style borders and patio containers. Its rounded habit gives planting schemes a neat, established appearance, while the contrasting buds provide interest during the quieter winter months. It is especially useful in partially shaded positions where many sun-loving flowering shrubs are less suitable.

Why We Love It

• Two varieties in one pot: The contrasting bud colours create a more varied display than a single-colour Skimmia.

• Excellent winter interest: Decorative flower buds develop in autumn and remain attractive through the colder months.

• Spring fragrance: Clusters of small white flowers bring a gentle fragrance as temperatures rise.

• Year-round foliage: Glossy evergreen leaves maintain a fresh, leafy appearance between flowering seasons.

• Manageable growth: Its naturally compact habit makes it useful for smaller planting spaces without demanding frequent pruning.

Plant Details

Growing Guide

Position

Choose a sheltered position in partial shade or light shade. Morning sunlight or filtered light beneath taller shrubs is particularly suitable. Avoid prolonged hot afternoon sun, which can stress the foliage, and exposed sites where cold, drying winds may damage developing flower buds.

Watering

Water thoroughly after planting and keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged, while the roots establish. Once established, water during extended dry spells rather than allowing the root area to dry out completely.

For container-grown plants, check the compost regularly, particularly during warm or windy weather. Water when the upper layer begins to dry, ensuring excess moisture can drain freely from the pot.

Soil and Compost

Skimmias prefer fertile, humus-rich soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged. Slightly acidic to neutral conditions are best.

When planting in the garden, incorporate well-rotted organic matter to improve soil structure and moisture retention. For containers, use a quality ericaceous compost in a pot with adequate drainage holes.

Avoid very alkaline or chalky conditions, which may lead to yellowing foliage and poor growth.

Hardiness and Winter Care

This Skimmia combination is suitable for outdoor growing in many Irish gardens. Its evergreen foliage and winter flower buds provide interest throughout the colder months.

Good drainage is especially important during prolonged wet weather. In containers, avoid leaving pots standing in water and consider moving them to a sheltered position during extended periods of severe frost. Protect the root ball from freezing for prolonged periods, particularly in exposed locations.

Routine Care

Skimmias require relatively little pruning. After flowering, remove dead, damaged or awkwardly placed stems if necessary, taking care to preserve the naturally rounded shape.

Avoid heavy pruning or trimming in autumn and winter, as this can remove the developing flower buds.

Apply a suitable ericaceous fertiliser in spring according to the manufacturer's instructions. A layer of organic mulch around garden-grown plants helps conserve moisture and improve soil conditions, provided it is kept clear of the main stems.

Perfect For

• Shaded borders: Adds evergreen foliage and seasonal flower buds to sheltered areas with limited direct sunlight.

• Patio containers: Provides a compact, long-lasting display, particularly when planted in suitable ericaceous compost.

• Entranceways: The contrasting winter buds make an attractive feature beside sheltered doorways and paths.

• Woodland-style gardens: Combines naturally with ferns, hellebores and other plants that enjoy humus-rich soil and partial shade.

• Small gardens: Offers several seasons of interest without the space requirements of larger flowering shrubs.

Good to Know

The 'Twins' combination contains two different Skimmia cultivars growing together in the same pot. 'Rubella' provides the deeper red winter buds, while 'Finchy' contributes the softer pale green tones. Their contrasting buds are a key feature of the plant, with the spring flowers providing a second seasonal display.

Skimmias generally dislike very alkaline soil and prolonged waterlogging. Maintaining suitable compost conditions and steady moisture is particularly important for keeping container-grown plants healthy.

Product Information

• Product: Skimmia japonica 'Rubella' & 'Finchy' (Twins)

• Pot Size: 23cm / 5 litre (P23)

• Approximate Supplied Height: 50cm

• Format: Two complementary Skimmia cultivars growing together in one pot

• Product Barcode: 8719324232517