Spotted Laurel, Japanese Laurel, Japanese Aucuba, Gold-Leaf Plant, Variegated Laurel
Aucuba japonica, commonly known as Spotted Laurel, Japanese Laurel, or Gold Dust Plant, is a slow-growing evergreen shrub in the Garryaceae (Silk Tassel) family. Native to East Asia, including Japan, China, and Korea, it is prized for its leathery, glossy leaves, often strikingly variegated with gold or yellow spots. It thrives in shade, tolerates urban pollution and poor soils, and provides vibrant year-round color, making it ideal for borders, foundation plantings, and container gardens.
Despite being nicknamed “laurel,” Aucuba japonica is not related to true laurels such as Bay Laurel (Laurus nobilis). Instead, it belongs to the Garryaceae family and stands out for its ability to brighten the darkest parts of the garden.
Spotted Laurel is native to moist valleys, woodlands, streambanks, and thickets of East Asia, particularly Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and southeast China. It has naturalized in many temperate gardens around the world due to its shade tolerance and evergreen habit.
Aucuba japonica is a broadleaf evergreen shrub with a rounded, upright to spreading form. It is dioecious, with male and female flowers on separate plants. When both sexes are grown nearby, female plants produce bright red berries that add ornamental interest from fall through spring.
Spotted Laurel typically grows 6 to 10 feet tall (1.8 to 3 meters) and 4 to 6 feet wide (1.2 to 1.8 meters), but may reach up to 15 feet (4.5 meters) under ideal conditions. Dwarf cultivars remain smaller and more compact.
This evergreen shrub is considered a slow grower, adding approximately 8 to 12 inches (20 to 30 cm) of growth per year. Growth rate may vary based on environmental factors such as soil fertility, moisture availability, and nutrient levels.
With proper care, Aucuba japonica can live for 25 to 50 years, providing long-lasting beauty and structural interest in shaded garden settings.
the flowers are small and purple-maroon with four petals, appearing in early to mid-spring. Male flowers are borne in terminal panicles, while female flowers emerge from the leaf axils and are adorned with creamy white anthers. Though not particularly showy, they provide early-season interest and are necessary for fruit production.
Female plants produce bright red berries (drupes) less than 1 inch (2.5 cm) long. These appear in fall and persist through winter. The berries are ornamental and long-lasting but are mildly toxic if ingested. To enjoy a stunning fall and winter fruit display, plant a male plant near a female plant!
Leaves are opposite, simple, leathery, and glossy, ranging from dark green to heavily variegated with yellow or gold speckles. Leaf margins can be entire or finely toothed. Sun-exposed leaves may blacken, so partial to deep shade is preferred.
The stems are green, smooth, and fleshy, contributing to its easy propagation. The bark is not a prominent ornamental feature.
Spotted Laurel is hardy in USDA zones 7 through 10 and may survive in protected areas of zone 6b. It tolerates a wide range of light and moisture conditions once established.
While Aucuba japonica does not attract a wide array of pollinators, its berries provide food for some bird species during the winter months. Its dense foliage offers shelter to small animals and nesting opportunities for garden birds. Small Trees and Shrubs to Attract Birds.
Spotted Laurel tolerates brief drought once established, especially in shaded sites. It also shows moderate resistance to salt, making it useful for coastal gardens and areas with de-icing salts.
While the attractive fruits and foliage enhance gardens, all parts of the plant, particularly the fruits and leaves, contain aucubin, a glycoside that poses a low toxicity risk. If ingested, symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, and possibly fever. Although it does not cause contact dermatitis, it is best to keep Aucuba japonica away from curious children and pets. Poisonous flowers and plants: Identifying toxic risks around you
This plant is generally avoided by deer and rabbits due to its leathery foliage and bitter compounds, making it a good choice for landscapes with browsing wildlife.
Aucuba japonica is not considered invasive. It grows slowly and remains well-behaved in both cultivated and naturalized garden settings.
Spotted Laurel is generally low-maintenance, but certain pests may occasionally affect its health. Regular monitoring and prompt action help prevent major infestations.
Fungal diseases are more likely to occur in warm, humid environments or when airflow is poor. Good cultural practices can help prevent outbreaks.
Spotted Laurel prefers partial to full shade and moist, well-drained soil. It tolerates a variety of soil types and urban conditions. While it can handle sun, variegated forms may suffer from leaf scorch if exposed to prolonged, intense sunlight.
Young plants require consistent moisture during their first growing season. Once established, Spotted Laurel is drought-tolerant and only needs supplemental watering during extended dry periods or extreme heat.
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Organic options like blood, fish, and bone meal help young plants develop strong roots. A second light feeding in midsummer can support vigorous foliage growth.
Minimal pruning is needed for the first few years. Thereafter, prune every two to three years to control shape and size. Perform pruning in spring or summer, cutting just above a leaf node to encourage bushier growth.
Yes, it responds well to hard pruning. Severe cuts in late spring promote dense regrowth. This method rejuvenates older, leggy shrubs and helps maintain a compact, healthy shape over time.
It is mostly trouble-free but can occasionally suffer from aphids, scale insects, or fungal leaf spots. Root rot may develop in poorly drained soils. Ensure proper spacing and airflow to minimize problems.
Propagation is best done through semi-ripe cuttings in late summer. Select firm but flexible stems, apply rooting hormone, and place them in moist, well-draining propagation mix under bright, indirect light.
Yes, all parts of the plant are mildly toxic if ingested. It may cause nausea, vomiting, or stomach discomfort in humans and pets. Avoid planting near play areas or where animals may browse.
Hardiness |
6 - 10 |
---|---|
Heat Zones |
6 - 11 |
Climate Zones | 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 |
Plant Type | Shrubs |
Plant Family | Garryaceae |
Common names | Japanese Laurel |
Exposure | Partial Sun, Shade |
Season of Interest | Spring (Early, Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter |
Height | 6' - 10' (180cm - 3m) |
Spread | 4' - 6' (120cm - 180cm) |
Spacing | 48" - 72" (120cm - 180cm) |
Maintenance | Low |
Water Needs | Average |
Soil Type | Chalk, Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Showy, Evergreen |
Tolerance | Full Shade, Clay Soil |
Garden Uses | Beds And Borders, Hedges And Screens, Patio And Containers |
Garden Styles | Informal and Cottage |
Hardiness |
6 - 10 |
---|---|
Heat Zones |
6 - 11 |
Climate Zones | 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 |
Plant Type | Shrubs |
Plant Family | Garryaceae |
Common names | Japanese Laurel |
Exposure | Partial Sun, Shade |
Season of Interest | Spring (Early, Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter |
Height | 6' - 10' (180cm - 3m) |
Spread | 4' - 6' (120cm - 180cm) |
Spacing | 48" - 72" (120cm - 180cm) |
Maintenance | Low |
Water Needs | Average |
Soil Type | Chalk, Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Showy, Evergreen |
Tolerance | Full Shade, Clay Soil |
Garden Uses | Beds And Borders, Hedges And Screens, Patio And Containers |
Garden Styles | Informal and Cottage |
How many Aucuba japonica (Spotted Laurel) do I need for my garden?
Plant | Quantity | |
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Aucuba japonica (Spotted Laurel) | N/A | Buy Plants |
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Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.
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