Common name: Rubesta Optima Japanese Skimmia

Description: This male Japanese skimmia cultivar is prized for its exceptional flower display and compact growth habit. In late winter and early spring, the plant produces dense clusters of fragrant pink-red flower buds that open to reveal creamy-white flowers with prominent yellow stamens. The aromatic evergreen foliage is glossy dark green with attractive red leaf stalks and winter bud scales. As a male variety, it serves as an excellent pollinator for female skimmias and is valued for its superior flower quality and extended blooming period.

Other benefits: excellent pollinator for female varieties, fragrant flowers, compact evergreen habit, winter interest from coloured buds

Wildlife attraction: important early nectar source for bees, butterflies, beneficial pollinators

Height & spread (approx.) at 10 years: 0.8m x 1m

Position: partial to full shade; shelter from cold winds and harsh sun

Soil pH: prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil

Moisture: regular watering required; benefits from organic mulch; needs moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil

Winter hardiness: hardy to -15°C