AUCUBA
Aucuba japonica
Plant Description
Aucuba, commonly known as Japanese Aucuba, is an unique, evergreen shrub with bold foliage that thrives in shady areas. Having larger scale leaves with pointed ends and serrated edges, most Aucubas are noted for their leaves which have speckles of gold, however there are also other, solid green varieties to consider as well such as 'Sawtooh Aucuba' or Green aucuba which has the same shape, but all green leaves. Aucuba grows to about 5-10' in height and looks best when planted in a grouping. A dwarf variety is also available (Aucuba japonica 'Nana').
Aucuba is one of the few shrubs that seems to thrive in the shade and is mostly grown for it's foliage texture and adaptability to any soil conditions – shade, dry soil, pollution etc. This shrub is very popular in China, Japan and Korea and often found in Japanese style gardens.There are both female and male varieties of Aucuba and the female shrub bear red berries in fall. Aucuba species have a height of 6-10 feet and have a spread of similar size at maturity. This species can be used as a hedge or specimen as well as can be planted outdoor in a container or as an imposing houseplant.
Plant Details
Pros: Evergreen, shady areas, gold speckled leaves, red berries in winter, deer tolerant
Cons: Poisonus
Evergreen
Size: 5-10'' height, 6-8' spread
Light: Shade
Bloom Color: Red berries
Fall Color: None
Water Needs: Low-Normal
Similar Plants: Aspidistra, Hosta