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Skimmia japonica 'Chameleon' (1 Gallon) is a versatile shrub known for its attractive foliage and appealing, fragrant flowers. This variety offers a unique color-changing effect in its leaves and adds a touch of elegance to garden beds, borders, and containers throughout the year.
Description:
- Dimensions: Grows to a height of 3-4 feet with a spread of 3-4 feet. It forms a rounded, dense shape with glossy, dark green leaves that exhibit a color-changing effect, transitioning from green to a reddish hue in cooler weather.
- Sun Exposure: Prefers part shade to full shade, ideally receiving 2-6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Thrives in shaded or partially shaded locations, making it ideal for areas with less direct sun.
- Water Requirements: Prefers well-drained, acidic soil with regular watering. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, especially during dry spells.
- Hardiness Zones: Hardy in Zones 6-9.
- Bloom Time: Blooms in late winter to early spring with small, fragrant white or creamy flowers that are held in attractive clusters.
- Pruning: Prune after flowering to remove spent blooms and shape the plant. Light pruning can help maintain a compact, tidy form and encourage new growth.
How to Plant:
- Location: Ideal for garden beds, borders, and containers in shaded or partially shaded areas. Prefers well-draining, acidic soil for optimal growth and foliage color.
- Soil Preparation: Use acidic, well-draining soil enriched with compost. Amend the soil if needed to improve drainage and prevent waterlogging.
- Planting: Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball. Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.
- Spacing: Space plants 3-4 feet apart to accommodate their mature spread and ensure good air circulation.
- Watering: Water thoroughly after planting and maintain consistent moisture during the growing season. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
Fun Fact: Skimmia japonica 'Chameleon' is celebrated for its unique foliage that changes color with the seasons, adding visual interest and elegance to any garden. Its fragrant winter blooms and evergreen leaves make it a year-round asset for shaded or partially shaded garden spaces.