How to prune skimmia japonica rubella

After flowering in late spring (April to May). Use sharp secateurs to trim back any vigorous or misplaced shoots to a healthy sideshoot or bud. Keep cuts light — never remove more than one-third of the plant — and avoid cutting into old, bare wood.

As needed (rarely). Skimmia japonica 'Rubella' rarely needs pruning — it grows slowly and naturally holds a neat rounded shape. However, if a wayward shoot spoils the outline, trim it back after flowering in late spring. Avoid pruning in summer or autumn as this risks removing the red winter buds that make Rubella so ornamental.

Use sharp secateurs to trim back any vigorous or misplaced shoots to a healthy sideshoot or bud. Keep cuts light — never remove more than one-third of the plant — and avoid cutting into old, bare wood.