Product description
Aucuba Japonica ‘Crotonifolia’ is an extremely hardy and versatile evergreen shrub which is popular for its bright foliage. It is also known as the ‘Gold Dust Plant’ or ‘Spotted Laurel’ or simply Japanese Laurel. It has some quite valuable features that make it suitable for plantation in different landscapes.
This compact medium-sized shrub has large leathery leaves, heavily spotted with yellow or golden colours. These brilliant speckled leaves fulfil the desire to have a garden illuminated on dull days. Aucuba Japonica is valued in floral shops for its variegation. One can recommend these shrubs as best shade plants that thrive in both cold winters and hot summers.
During autumn, you can spot red berries on the female plant but they are mildly toxic and have a bitter taste. Leaves need to be protected in hot summer from the burning sun. Plant it at a shady place in summer and provide full sunlight in winters.
Adding a decent loam-based compost as feed will enhance the brightness of its foliage. This Spotted Laurel blooms tiny purple flowers (not fragrant) on the female plant.
These plants are wind, pollution and drought tolerant which makes them adaptive to a balcony or a city garden. Use them as a hedge outdoors or in containers.
Aucuba Japonica Crotonifolia creates a lush tropical scenery in a cold winter garden.
Garden Plant Size Guide
Plants in larger pots can be multiple years older than their smaller counterparts with more mature root systems and foliage. This makes them able to thrive as a full size plant in your garden quicker than smaller alternatives.
The most common size of pot that garden plants come in are 9cm/1L/3L/5L this is in reference to the diameter at the top of the pot.
9cm potted plants still remain the most popular cost effective option though, they just may take a little patience to allow them to grow into full maturity once planted in your garden.
Plant specs, care guide & tips
Key features
Specifications
When to plant
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
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Planting and period of interest times are general guidelines and may vary based on your location and conditions. For best results, consult local gardening resources.
Instructions
Top Tip
Aucuba is tolerant of polluted air, making it a great choice for urban gardens.
How to Water
Water regularly during the first season then only as required during dry weather once the plant is established.
How to Plant
Dig in some organic matter to boost the soil’s nutrients and plant aucuba in full sun or partial shade in moist but well-draining soil. Create a hole slightly wider than the root ball and position the plant, gently spreading the roots. Backfill, forming gently as you go, and water in well. Leave 150cm between plants.