Skimmia 
Flora Frost Skimmia japonica 'Smits Spider'
| Leaf tip | Blunt/obtuse |
| Leaf margin | Entire |
| Leaf, general shape | Lanceolate; Elongate |
| Plant height | 20 - 30 cm |
| Inflorescence | Raceme |
| Leaf duration | Evergreen |
| Leaf size | 10 - 15 cm |
| Light conditions | Sunny; Semi-shades |
| Inflorescence length | 5 - 10 cm |
| Inflorescence diameter | 3 - 5 cm |
| Leaf, main color | Dark green |
Skimmia japonica 'Smits Spider' is a popular evergreen plant known for its attractive dark green leaves and delicate, fragrant flowers. With a height of 20-30 cm, it is a compact shrub that can easily fit into smaller gardens or container plantings.
One of the distinctive features of Skimmia japonica 'Smits Spider' is its lanceolate, elongated leaves with blunt or obtuse tips. The leaves have entire margins, which means they are smooth and do not have any indentations or serrations. This adds to the plant's overall elegant and polished appearance.
In terms of light conditions, Skimmia japonica 'Smits Spider' thrives in both sunny and semi-shade environments. It adapts well to various lighting conditions, making it a versatile choice for different garden settings.
In spring, Skimmia japonica 'Smits Spider' produces beautiful inflorescences in the form of racemes. The inflorescences can range in length from 5 to 10 cm, with a diameter of 3 to 5 cm. The flowers are delicate and fragrant, adding a touch of elegance and charm to any garden. The male plants produce clusters of white flowers, while the female plants produce smaller clusters of red berries, which further enhance the visual appeal of the plant.
Skimmia japonica 'Smits Spider' is a low-maintenance plant that does not require much care. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and benefits from regular watering during dry periods. It is also recommended to apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture and suppress weed growth.
This cultivar of Skimmia japonica is highly valued for its ornamental qualities and its ability to attract wildlife, such as bees and butterflies. It can be used as a focal point in garden borders or as a feature plant in containers. Its compact size also makes it suitable for smaller spaces, such as balconies or patios.
Overall, Skimmia japonica 'Smits Spider' is a versatile and attractive evergreen plant that offers year-round interest. With its elegant leaves, fragrant flowers, and compact size, it is a valuable addition to any garden or landscape design. Whether used as a standalone plant or in group plantings, it is sure to bring beauty and charm to its surroundings.
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