Skimmia japonica 'Mystic Marlot' is a delightful compact evergreen shrub that brings year-round beauty to any garden. Its striking variegated leaves, featuring rich green hues accented by creamy-white edges, create a visually appealing display throughout the seasons. This shrub is particularly well-suited for small gardens, container arrangements, and shaded borders, making it a versatile choice for various landscaping needs. The combination of its ornamental foliage, fragrant flowers, and vibrant berries ensures that 'Mystic Marlot' remains a focal point in any outdoor space.
In the spring, this charming shrub showcases clusters of fragrant white flowers that emerge from red flower buds formed in the previous autumn. These blossoms not only add to the aesthetic appeal but also attract pollinators, enhancing the biodiversity of your garden. As a female plant, 'Mystic Marlot' produces bright red berries during the winter months, provided there is a male pollinator nearby. This seasonal transformation adds a splash of color to the winter landscape, making it a delightful sight even in the colder months.
To thrive, 'Mystic Marlot' prefers partial to full shade, as direct exposure to hot sun can scorch its delicate foliage. It flourishes in moist, well-drained soil that ranges from acidic to neutral, ensuring optimal growth and health. Fully hardy in the UK, this shrub can withstand frost and typical winter conditions without requiring additional protection. Its low-maintenance nature, needing only light pruning to maintain its shape, makes it an excellent choice for woodland gardens, container displays, or as a charming addition to the front of shaded borders. Height: 60 cm (24 in) Spread: 60 cm (24 in).
Growing Information
Grow Skimmia plants in a dappled or fully shaded position, in moderately fertile, rich, well drained soil which can be neutral to acidic in pH. Avoid full sun, as this can cause yellowing of the leaves. Alternatively grow Skimmia in large containers, using a soil based compost such as John Innes No.3 mixed with ericaceous (acidic) compost.
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