Japanese Aucuba, Spotted Laurel
aucuba japonica
Also known as: ["Japanese Laurel","Gold Dust Plant"]
Overview
A slow-growing evergreen shrub with distinctive yellow or gold spots on dark green leaves, native to Japan and East Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","aesthetic foliage","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Garryales |
| Family: | Garryaceae |
| Genus: | Aucuba |
| Botanical Name: | Aucuba japonica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: shady garden bed or container in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if indoor air is very dry
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, rich, loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial shade; 4–6 hours of filtered sunlight daily; adjust for intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to outdoor light; protect from direct midday sun; place in dappled shade outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sun; rotate plant for even growth; adjust light in seasons.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water deeply to encourage root growth; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure bottom drainage.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid frost; prefers stable conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain moderate warmth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with leaf nodes; can also be propagated by layering.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; thin out crowded areas.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, remove dead or diseased growth, and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution; water until it drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, or browning edges; stunted growth; bud drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration; vulnerable to frost damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; use a space heater if needed.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop; reduced vigor in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during growing season; monitor for signs of over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; feed monthly in spring and summer; reduce or stop in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest the berries of Aucuba japonica. The saponins in the berries can lead to discomfort, though severe toxicity is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Aucuba japonica can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs due to the presence of saponins. Symptoms are typically mild and resolve without serious intervention unless large quantities are consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAucuba japonica contains saponins, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested in significant quantities. The berries are the most toxic part of the plant, though the effects are generally not severe unless consumed in large amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Aucuba japonica toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Does Aucuba japonica need full sun?
A: No, it prefers partial shade or full shade and can tolerate low light conditions.
Q: How fast does Aucuba japonica grow?
A: It is a slow-growing plant, typically growing only a few inches per year.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Garryaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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