Reeves Skimmia (Skimmia reevesiana) is an attractive evergreen shrub offering year-round interest in many garden settings. Valued for its lush foliage, fragrant spring flowers, and vibrant autumn berries, it provides a consistent presence in the landscape. Understanding its specific needs ensures a thriving addition to any garden.
Distinctive Features of Reeves Skimmia
Reeves Skimmia is a slow-growing evergreen shrub, forming a dense, mounded shape, typically reaching 1 to 3 feet tall and 2 to 3 feet wide. Its deep, leathery green leaves are lance-shaped or oblong, providing a glossy texture and continuous visual appeal throughout the year.
In spring, it produces fragrant white flowers from rosy pink buds, appearing in terminal clusters that measure 5 to 7.5 cm long. These blooms add a sweet scent to the garden.
A key feature of Skimmia reevesiana is its self-fertile nature. Unlike many other Skimmia varieties that require separate male and female plants for berry production, a single Reeves Skimmia can produce both flowers and berries. Following the spring flowers, abundant clusters of bright crimson or red berries, approximately 8mm long, develop by mid-fall. These berries persist on the plant well into winter, providing extended color.
Ideal Growing Environment
Reeves Skimmia thrives in partial to full shade, ideally receiving 3 to 6 hours of daily sunlight. Protect the plant from harsh afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch; morning sun with afternoon shade is particularly favorable.
It prefers well-drained soil rich in organic matter, with a pH ranging from slightly acidic to neutral (5.0 to 7.4). Incorporate compost or other organic material into the planting hole to improve soil structure and nutrient content.
When planting, dig a hole as deep as the root ball and twice as wide. Ensure the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. After planting, consistent moisture is crucial for root system development during its first growing seasons.
Ongoing Maintenance
Once established, Reeves Skimmia requires minimal ongoing care. Water consistently, especially during dry periods, to maintain evenly moist soil. Watering once every 1 to 2 weeks is often sufficient for established outdoor plants, increasing frequency during hot, dry spells. Applying a layer of mulch around the base helps retain soil moisture and regulate soil temperature.
An annual application of a balanced fertilizer in spring, as new growth begins, supports foliage and flower development. If the soil is already rich in organic matter, additional feeding may not be necessary. If fertilizing, use a slow-release formula or a fertilizer designed for acid-loving plants.
Reeves Skimmia is a slow-growing shrub, so extensive pruning is not typically required. For shaping or size control, light pruning should be done after flowering in spring. This timing helps avoid removing the current season’s flower buds, which form on old wood. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches as needed to maintain plant health.
Landscape Advantages
Reeves Skimmia offers several advantages for diverse landscape designs. Its compact size and mounded form make it suitable for various garden applications, including foundation plantings, mixed borders, woodland settings, and containers, providing a versatile option for patios or smaller spaces.
The shrub provides year-round visual interest due to its evergreen foliage, fragrant spring flowers, and persistent red berries that often last into winter. This continuous appeal adds structure and color throughout the seasons. Reeves Skimmia is also known for its resistance to deer, which is a benefit in areas where deer browse is a concern. Its low-maintenance nature makes it a practical choice for gardeners.