Skimmia japonica 'Rubella' is a lovely evergreen shrub which provides colour in autumn and winter when the red buds start to appear in tight little clusters nestled into dark green, leathery, glossy and pointed oval leaves, which then transform into clusters of lovely, tiny white fragrant flowers in spring. Growing 1metre to 1.5metre both high and wide, in a very tidy rounded fashion this shrub is great for year round colour without taking up too much space. It prefers an acidic to neutral soil, but will tolerate a slightly more alkaline situation if treated with sulphate of iron or similar to address any yellowing of leaves. Best in a partially shaded location and perfectly hardy.