Additional notes (click to expand)

Nomenclature

The genus name is derived from the Japanese word shikimi (Stearn, 1994).
Oakeley, Dr. Henry F. (2013). Wellcome Library notes. link

Toxicity

Skimmianine is a furoquinolone alkaloid, common in Rutaceae has strong anticholinesterase activity. It is related to dictamine which causes photosensitisation and is mutagenic.

All parts of the plant are poisonous, containing skimmianine. It is said to cause vomiting, and if eaten in large quantities, cardiac arrest. (Duke, 1985).
Oakeley, Dr. Henry F. (2013). Wellcome Library notes. link

Geographical distribution

  • Asia-Temperate, Eastern Asia, Japan
  • Asia-Temperate, Eastern Asia, Taiwan
  • Asia-Temperate, Russian Far East, Kuril Is.
  • Asia-Temperate, Russian Far East, Sakhalin
  • Asia-Tropical, Malesia, Philippines

Skimmia japonica 'Veitchii'

Family: RUTACEAE
Genus: Skimmia
Species: japonica
Cultivar: 'Veitchii'
Distribution summary: Russian far east, Japan, Taiwan, Philippines
Habit: Shrub
Hardiness: H5 - Hardy; cold winter
Garden status: Currently grown
Garden location: Plants of the World (C)
Flowering months: March
Reason for growing: Toxic


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