Aucuba japonica 'Crotonifolia' | Crotonifolia Spotted Laurel
DESCRIPTION
Aucuba japonica 'Crotonifolia' is an evergreen shrub prized for its glossy, variegated foliage. The large, leathery leaves feature a vibrant mix of green with golden-yellow speckles, offering year-round interest. This cultivar is particularly admired for its ability to brighten shaded garden spaces. In spring, small burgundy flowers appear, which, if pollinated by a compatible male plant, give way to bright red berries that persist into the fall and winter.
Native to Japan and other parts of Asia, 'Crotonifolia' has been cultivated for ornamental purposes in gardens worldwide. Its robust nature and tolerance for challenging conditions make it a versatile choice for hedges, containers, or as a specimen plant in low-light areas. The combination of ornamental foliage, spring blooms, and colorful berries ensures its enduring appeal in landscape designs.
DESCRIPTION
Aucuba japonica 'Crotonifolia' is an evergreen shrub prized for its glossy, variegated foliage. The large, leathery leaves feature a vibrant mix of green with golden-yellow speckles, offering year-round interest. This cultivar is particularly admired for its ability to brighten shaded garden spaces. In spring, small burgundy flowers appear, which, if pollinated by a compatible male plant, give way to bright red berries that persist into the fall and winter.
Native to Japan and other parts of Asia, 'Crotonifolia' has been cultivated for ornamental purposes in gardens worldwide. Its robust nature and tolerance for challenging conditions make it a versatile choice for hedges, containers, or as a specimen plant in low-light areas. The combination of ornamental foliage, spring blooms, and colorful berries ensures its enduring appeal in landscape designs.
DESCRIPTION
Aucuba japonica 'Crotonifolia' is an evergreen shrub prized for its glossy, variegated foliage. The large, leathery leaves feature a vibrant mix of green with golden-yellow speckles, offering year-round interest. This cultivar is particularly admired for its ability to brighten shaded garden spaces. In spring, small burgundy flowers appear, which, if pollinated by a compatible male plant, give way to bright red berries that persist into the fall and winter.
Native to Japan and other parts of Asia, 'Crotonifolia' has been cultivated for ornamental purposes in gardens worldwide. Its robust nature and tolerance for challenging conditions make it a versatile choice for hedges, containers, or as a specimen plant in low-light areas. The combination of ornamental foliage, spring blooms, and colorful berries ensures its enduring appeal in landscape designs.
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Family: Garryaceae
Height: 10 to 15 feet
Width: 10 to 15 feet
Foliage color: Variegated gold and green, glossy
Flower color: Small burgundy flowers
Bloom time: Spring
Light requirements: Partial shade to full shade
Water requirements: Regular to low once established
Maintenance: Low; adaptable to various soils including clay and well-drained types
Growing zone: USDA zones 7a to 10b
Wildlife attractors: Attracts birds with its bright red berries (produced if a male pollinator is nearby)
