Japanese Aucuba
Aucuba japonica
Variegata
About this plant
Aucuba japonica, commonly known as Japanese Aucuba, is an evergreen shrub with glossy, leathery leaves often spotted with yellow or gold. It produces small purple flowers and bright red berries in the fall, adding color to shady gardens. This plant is popular for its tolerance to shade and urban pollution, making it a great choice for gardens and indoor spaces.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Aucuba
- Family
- Garryaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Garryales
- Plant type
- Shrub
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Japan, China, Korea
- Distribution
- Widely cultivated in temperate regions worldwide, originally native to Japan, China, and Korea.
Care
- Light preference
- Partial shade
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- North-facing, East-facing, Northeast-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 5–10 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- -10 °C
- Maximum
- 30 °C
- Optimal
- 15-25 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 7-10
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Soil type
- well-draining loam or potting mix
Watering. Water moderately, allowing the topsoil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot.
Fertilizing. Feed with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can harm the plant.
Aucuba japonica is a tough and easy-to-care-for shrub that thrives in shady spots. It prefers well-draining soil and needs moderate watering. It is resistant to many diseases and pests, making it a low-maintenance plant suitable for beginners.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings, Seeds
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring
Glossy green leaves with yellow spots, small purple flowers, and bright red berries in autumn.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Mildly toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Mildly toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
The berries are mildly toxic if eaten and can cause stomach upset. Keep away from children and pets.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Low
Aucuba japonica may cause mild skin irritation in some people who are sensitive to its sap. The plant's pollen is not a common allergen, so it is generally safe for allergy sufferers. To reduce any risk, avoid direct contact with the leaves or sap if you have sensitive skin.
Common problems
Overwatering can cause root rot, and too much direct sunlight may scorch the leaves. Occasionally, scale insects or spider mites may appear but are usually easy to control.
Uses
Used as an ornamental shrub in gardens and indoor spaces for its attractive foliage and berries. It is also valued for shade tolerance and urban landscaping.
Notes
Prune lightly in early spring to maintain shape and remove any damaged branches. Repot every 2-3 years if grown indoors. Protect from strong winds and avoid direct hot sun to prevent leaf burn.