Skimmia is an excellent choice for partial shade and sheltered areas of the garden. Avoid strong afternoon sunlight, which can damage the foliage. When growing in containers, use ericaceous compost and ensure the pot has adequate drainage.

Planting Skimmia in strong direct sunlight or alkaline soil. Too much sun can scorch or yellow the foliage, while unsuitable soil conditions can prevent the plant from absorbing the nutrients it needs.

Come back in spring if you want: • Feeding advice • Help choosing companion plants • Container-growing advice • A general plant health check

Skimmias provide valuable late-winter and early-spring interest, with their flower buds developing well before the flowers actually open. The spring flowers are also fragrant and attractive to early pollinating insects.

Cultivar of Skimmia japonica, a species native to Japan and other parts of East Asia