Though attractive, these berries can cause a mild stomach upset if eaten so keep the kiddies away. The leaves are about 4-6 inches long, oval in shape and quite thick, almost waxy. The Skimmia genus consists of four species, with several new varieties developed recently. The species originate in southeastern Asia and are fully frost hardy. They prefer part shade and slightly acidic soil like rhododendrons or camellias.
Soil needs to be moist but well-drained and rich in humus.
They can be grown from seed but are usually raised from cuttings in the nursery trades. This is one of the taller ones, growing slowly up to six feet. The original species has creamy white, slightly fragrant flowers and red berries. Cultivar Rubella has red-margined leaves and dark red flower buds. Robert Fortune has paler green leaves with a dark green margin.