Aucuba japonica 'Gold Dust'Gold Dust Japanese Laurel
DESCRIPTION
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. It is often used in shaded garden areas, where its bright foliage can lighten darker spaces. The plant’s year-round color and low-maintenance nature make it a popular choice for hedges, foundation plantings, or as a standalone accent in the landscape.
DESCRIPTION
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. It is often used in shaded garden areas, where its bright foliage can lighten darker spaces. The plant’s year-round color and low-maintenance nature make it a popular choice for hedges, foundation plantings, or as a standalone accent in the landscape.
DESCRIPTION
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. It is often used in shaded garden areas, where its bright foliage can lighten darker spaces. The plant’s year-round color and low-maintenance nature make it a popular choice for hedges, foundation plantings, or as a standalone accent in the landscape.
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Family: Garryaceae
Height: 4 to 6 feet
Width: 4 to 6 feet
Foliage color: Glossy dark green leaves speckled with gold
Flower color: Insignificant, not a notable feature
Bloom time: Spring
Light requirements: Prefers partial shade to full shade
Water requirements: Average moisture
Maintenance: Low; can be pruned to maintain shape
Growing zone: USDA Zones 7–9
Wildlife attractors: Berries on female plants may attract birds (if a male pollinator is present nearby for fertilization)
