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Key characteristics

Family: Garryaceae
Height: 4 to 6 feet
Width: 4 to 6 feet
Flower color: Insignificant, not a notable feature
Foliage color: Glossy dark green leaves speckled with gold
Bloom time: Spring
Light: Prefers partial shade to full shade
Water: Average moisture
Maintenance: Low; can be pruned to maintain shape
Growing zone: USDA Zones 7 to 9
Wildlife: Berries on female plants may attract birds (if a male pollinator is present nearby for fertilization)

Shrubs

Aucuba japonica 'Gold Dust'

Gold Dust Japanese Spotted Laurel

Aucuba japonica is an evergreen shrub celebrated for its glossy green leaves speckled with golden-yellow markings, giving it a distinctive, variegated appearance. In spring, it produces small purple-red flowers, which are followed by bright red berries on female plants if a male pollinator is nearby. These berries persist into winter, adding seasonal interest to the plant.

Native to Japan, China, and Korea, Aucuba japonica 'Gold Dust' has been cultivated for its ornamental foliage and adaptability.

Light

Prefers partial shade to full shade

Water

Average moisture

Bloom time

Spring

Find this plant

Works well in

Shade Gardens
Hedging & Privacy
Foundation Plantings
Specimen Plants

Companion plants

Leucothoe · Solomon’s seal · Bergenia · Japanese plum yew · Hosta · Snowdrops

Design tip

Brighten a shady corner by pairing this colorful evergreen with deep green foliage and softer, finely textured plants. Use it near an entry, along a pathway, or within a layered border where its golden variegation can add warmth and contrast year-round.

Printable plant sheet (PDF)