Skimmia 
Flora Frost Skimmia japonica Rubesta Optima
| Leaf arrangement | spreaded |
| Flower type | Single |
| Leaf margin | Entire |
| Winter hardness | Good (USDA-zone 5, 6) |
| Flower color | Red-dark purple red-185A |
| Leaf, general shape | Lanceolate |
| Flower diameter | Small |
| Plant height | 1 - 1,2 m; 40 - 50 cm |
| Inflorescence | Raceme |
| Flowering month(s) | April; May |
| Leaf width | 2 - 3 cm |
| Leaf duration | Evergreen |
| Leaf size | 7,5 - 10 cm |
| Inflorescence length | 10 - 15 cm |
| Inflorescence diameter | 5 - 10 cm |
| Leaf, main color | Dark green |
| Leaf colour, pattern | Unicolored |
| Flower color distribution | Unicolored |
| Flower, secondary color(s) | White |
Skimmia japonica Rubesta Optima is a stunning variety of Skimmia with a range of appealing characteristics. This plant is highly favored for its evergreen leaves and its beautiful flowers that bloom during the months of April and May. With a spreaded leaf arrangement and lanceolate shape, the Skimmia japonica Rubesta Optima has an elegant demeanor that adds a touch of sophistication to any garden.
One of the key features of this Skimmia variety is its winter hardness. It is suitable for USDA-zone 5 and 6, making it a durable and resilient plant that can withstand colder temperatures. This is particularly important for gardeners located in regions with harsh winter conditions.
The flowers of the Skimmia japonica Rubesta Optima are single in type, with a small diameter and a striking red-dark purple color (185A on the color scale). The inflorescence is in the form of a raceme, with lengths ranging from 10 to 15 cm and a diameter of 5 to 10 cm. The secondary color of the flowers is white, creating a captivating contrast that further enhances its appeal.
In terms of size, this Skimmia variety grows to a height of 1 to 1.2 meters, or approximately 40 to 50 cm. The leaves are 7.5 to 10 cm in size, with a width of 2 to 3 cm. The overall leaf color is a rich, dark green, creating a visually appealing contrast with the vibrant red flowers. The leaf margin is entire, giving it a smooth and cohesive appearance.
The Skimmia japonica Rubesta Optima is an ideal plant for those looking to add year-round color and interest to their garden. With its evergreen leaves, it provides a sense of depth and texture even during the colder months when other plants may have lost their foliage. Its compact size makes it suitable for small gardens or as a focal point in larger landscapes.
Gardeners and plant enthusiasts can benefit from incorporating this Skimmia variety into their outdoor space. Its low maintenance requirements and winter resilience make it an ideal choice for beginners and experienced gardeners alike. Whether used as a standalone specimen or as part of a mixed planting scheme, the Skimmia japonica Rubesta Optima is sure to bring beauty and charm to any garden.
Market availability index by month:
| Jan. | Feb. | Mar. | Apr. | May | Jun. | Jul. | Aug. | Sep. | Oct. | Nov. | Dec. |
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| 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | - | - | 1 | 1 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 1 |