Skimmia japonica Temptation

A compact, versatile evergreen shrub valued for its multi-season interest and self-fertile habit, Skimmia japonica Temptation provides dependable colour throughout the year. Clothed in dense, leathery, aromatic dark green foliage, it develops tight clusters of reddish-green flower buds in late Autumn and Winter. In Spring, these open into scented, creamy-white flowers that attract early pollinating insects. Unlike dioecious varieties that require separate male and female partners, this hermaphrodite cultivar sets fruit reliably on its own, bearing heavy clusters of glossy, long-lasting bright red berries from Autumn well into Winter. Naturally mounded and slow-growing, it is well-suited to shaded borders and patio planters.

Site: Tolerates inland exposure
Soil: Moist, fertile, well-drained acidic to neutral soil; dislikes chalk and heavy, waterlogged ground
Position: Partial shade or deep shade
Season of interest: Fragrant white flowers in Spring, glossy foliage year-round, and vivid red berries in Autumn and Winter
Hardiness: Fully hardy
Height: 3-4ft (0.9-1.2m) Spread: 3-4ft (0.9-1.2m)

Image 1 by Choo Yut Shing cropped and licensed under CC BY 2.0