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Aucuba japonica (Aucuba, Gold Dust)

Aucuba, Gold Dust

Aucuba japonica 'Variegata'

Discontinued

Native to Japan and China, Aucuba is an perfect plant for completely shaded areas of the landscape that need some color – which come from the foliage instead of the blooms. This slow-growing dense upright shrub forms a thicket of erect stems, sporting dark green leaves mixed with yellow variegation that reach up to eight inches long. 


Aucuba appreciates rich moist soils, however will tolerate drought. Full shade is a necessity in hotter areas, as leaves will completely black and die if exposed to intense sun. Tolerates salt spray and air pollution, and responds well to regular pruning to keep it compact.


Males sport small purple-brown flowers, while the nearby female plants grow small red-brown fruits; both are often unnoticeable. 

Accent Plant
Container Specimen
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Height

7 Feet

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Spread

5 Feet


USDA Hardiness Zone 7b

Characteristics & Attributes

Deer Tolerance
Medium
Exposure
Part Shade to Full Shade
Habit
Evergreen
Water Needs
Medium