Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Aucuba japonica 'Mr. Goldstrike'
Mr. Goldstrike Japanese Spotted Laurel
- Family
- Garryaceae
- Height
- 4 to 6 feet
- Width
- 3 to 4 feet
- Flower color
- Burgundy, small and inconspicuous
- Foliage color
- Dark green leaves heavily speckled with bright yellow
- Bloom time
- Spring
- Light
- Partial to full shade
- Water
- Moderate
- Maintenance
- Low; pruning to shape as desired
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 6 to 10
- Wildlife
- As a male plant, it does not produce berries but can serve as a pollinator for female Aucubas nearby. Its dense foliage provides cover for birds
About this plant
Aucuba japonica 'Mr. Goldstrike' is an evergreen shrub renowned for its bold, variegated foliage. The glossy, leathery leaves are bright green and heavily splashed with vibrant golden-yellow markings, creating a luminous effect in shaded areas. In spring, small clusters of maroon flowers appear, adding a subtle yet appealing accent to the colorful foliage.
Native to East Asia, Aucuba japonica has long been cultivated for its ability to thrive in low-light conditions. 'Mr. Goldstrike' is a male cultivar, often grown for its ornamental value and used as a companion plant to female Aucuba varieties for pollination, which enables berry production. Its cheerful foliage and adaptability make it a favorite choice for brightening shaded gardens, borders, or containers.
Works well in
Shade Gardens · Hedging & Privacy · Containers · Specimen Plants
Companion plants
Mahonia · Astilbe · Heuchera · Maidenhair fern · Corydalis · Lily-of-the-valley
Design tip
Use this cheerful evergreen to bring light and color to shady borders, entry gardens, or tucked-away corners. Pair it with deep green foliage and softer textures, then repeat its golden tones nearby to create a garden that feels connected and inviting.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.
