Spotted Laurel Aucuba japonica 'Marmorata' (v)
ABOUT
The Aucuba japonica 'Marmorata', commonly known as the Spotted Laurel, is a striking evergreen shrub known for its unique foliage. The leaves of this plant are broad, glossy, and leathery, providing a robust texture contrast in garden settings. Its most distinguishing feature is the variegated pattern on the leaves, where a deep green background is splashed with yellow to cream-colored spots and blotches, resembling a marbled effect. This variegation can vary from leaf to leaf, making each one unique and creating a tapestry of color throughout the plant. The leaves are typically elongated, with a smooth or slightly wavy margin and can be quite large, contributing to the plant's lush appearance. During certain times of the year, the Spotted Laurel may produce small, inconspicuous purple flowers, followed by bright red berries that stand out against the variegated foliage. This combination of colorful leaves, flowers, and berries adds both visual interest and a touch of exotic charm to any landscape where the plant is featured. Its tolerance for shade and its striking appearance make it a popular choice for gardeners looking to add year-round color to their garden without relying on flowers. Overall, the Spotted Laurel's vibrant leaves and attractive berries make it a valued ornamental plant in many gardens.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Spotted Laurel, Japanese Laurel, Gold Dust Plant, Variegated Aucuba.
Common names
Aucuba japonica 'Marmorata'
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as the spotted laurel is not considered highly toxic to humans, but it can cause mild symptoms if ingested. Symptoms of poisoning from this plant may include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It's advisable to avoid ingesting this plant to prevent any possible adverse effects.
To pets
Spotted laurel is considered to have a low level of toxicity to pets. If a pet ingests parts of this plant, it may experience symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. While not generally life-threatening, ingestion of spotted laurel can cause gastrointestinal upset in pets and should be avoided.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Variegated
Height
6 feet (1.83 meters)
Spread
6 feet (1.83 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Japan
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Aucuba 'Marmorata' is appreciated for its striking variegated foliage, which adds visual interest to garden spaces.
- Shade Tolerance: This plant is well-suited for shady areas where many other plants may not thrive, making it ideal for woodland gardens or north-facing gardens.
- Low Maintenance: Aucuba 'Marmorata' requires minimal pruning and care once established, which is great for gardeners seeking plants that do not require extensive maintenance.
- Drought Resistance: Once established, it has a degree of drought resistance, making it suitable for gardens in drier climates or for gardeners aiming to conserve water.
- Pest and Disease Resistance: It is generally resistant to pests and diseases, which translates into fewer chemical interventions and a more eco-friendly garden.
- Versatility: The plant can be used in a variety of landscape applications, such as hedges, container planting, or as a standalone specimen.
- Wildlife Support: It provides berries that can serve as a food source for birds during the winter months.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Aucuba japonica 'Marmorata', commonly known as Spotted Laurel, can be used in floral arrangements as its glossy, speckled leaves add a touch of exoticism and lasting greenery to bouquets.
- In coastal gardens, Spotted Laurel acts as a windbreak that offers protection to more delicate plants thanks to its hardy nature.
- The dense foliage of Spotted Laurel can be used to enhance privacy in gardens or on patios as living screens or hedges.
- Spotted Laurel's tolerance to pollution makes it suitable for urban and roadside planting, contributing to green spaces in cities.
- Dense and robust, Spotted Laurel can be used to prevent soil erosion on slopes or banks as its root system helps to stabilize the ground.
- This plant serves as a low-maintenance ground cover in shaded areas where other plants might struggle to thrive.
- Spotted Laurel is an ideal choice for creating a garden backdrop, against which the colors of flowering plants can pop.
- As a resilient container plant, Spotted Laurel adds an evergreen presence to balconies and terraces throughout the year.
- Spotted Laurel can be strategically planted to provide shelter and nesting sites for birds within their dense branches.
- The leaves of Spotted Laurel can be used in crafts, such as natural printmaking or leaf rubbing activities for educational purposes.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Spotted Laurel is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Spotted Laurel is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Protection: Due to its hardy nature and ability to thrive in shade, Aucuba japonica 'Marmorata', commonly known as Spotted Laurel, often symbolizes protection and shelter against adversity.
- Resilience: Spotted Laurel can tolerate a wide range of conditions, making it a symbol of resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges.
- Good Fortune: With its glossy leaves that sometimes show yellow spots, Spotted Laurel is considered to bring good luck and prosperity, much like the concept of "gold" in foliage being a positive omen.
WaterThe Japanese laurel (Aucuba japonica 'Marmorata') should be watered thoroughly, allowing the soil to become slightly dry between waterings. During active growth in spring and summer, water approximately once a week, providing about 1 gallon of water each time for a medium-sized plant. In the fall and winter, reduce watering to every other week, adjusting for lower light and temperature conditions. Ensure the pot has adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
LightJapanese laurel prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate low light conditions. The ideal spot would be in a room with northern or eastern exposure, where the plant is protected from direct sunlight. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so a location with dappled shade or a sheer curtain to filter light is optimal.
TemperatureThe Japanese laurel thrives in temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can tolerate a minimum temperature of 50 degrees Fahrenheit, but avoid exposing it to temperatures below this as cold damage can occur. The plant does not require high temperatures but should be protected from drafts and sudden temperature changes.
PruningPrune the Japanese laurel to shape the plant, remove any damaged or dead leaves, and promote bushier growth. The best time for pruning is in the spring before new growth starts. It is not necessary to prune frequently, once a year should suffice. Use clean, sharp pruning tools to make clean cuts without tearing the stems.
CleaningAs needed
SoilAucuba japonica 'Marmorata', commonly known as Spotted Laurel, thrives in moist, well-draining soil with a high organic content. A mixture of peat, pine bark, and perlite or sand at equal ratios creates an ideal growing medium. This variegated shrub prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingSpotted Laurel should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to prevent the roots from becoming pot-bound. Repotting is best done in spring before the onset of the growing season, allowing the plant to establish in its new container.
Humidity & MistingSpotted Laurel prefers moderate to high humidity levels but is generally tolerant and adaptable to average household humidity. Providing a humidity level of 40-60% will support the plant's health and foliage luster.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Spotted Laurel in bright, indirect light away from drafts, with moderate watering.
Outdoor
Plant Spotted Laurel in partial shade, sheltered from harsh sun and cold winds.
Hardiness zone
7-9 USDA.
Life cycleAucuba japonica 'Marmorata', commonly known as Spotted Laurel, begins its life as a seed, which after germination, develops into a small seedling with its first set of true leaves. As it grows, it enters the juvenile phase, where it focuses on foliage growth, forming a shrub with glossy, green leaves speckled with yellow or creamy-white variegation. After several years, the Spotted Laurel reaches maturity and can start to produce small, reddish-purple flowers if a male pollinator is present, as the 'Marmorata' variety is female. Once pollinated, these flowers give way to bright red berries that are popular with birds. Throughout its life, Aucuba japonica 'Marmorata' will continue to grow and expand in size, with the ability to reach up to 6 to 10 feet tall and wide, depending on conditions. With proper care, this evergreen shrub can live for many years, going through regular cycles of flowering and fruiting.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method for propagating the Japanese laurel 'Marmorata', which is known for its marbled green and yellow foliage, is through semi-hardwood cuttings. The best time to take these cuttings is in late summer. A semi-hardwood cutting is from the current year's growth that has begun to mature but is not yet fully hardened. Typically, you should select a healthy stem, cut a 4 to 6 inch length, making the cut just below a leaf node. Once cut, remove the leaves from the lower half of the stem and dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder to encourage root development. Then, plant the cutting in a pot filled with a mixture of peat and perlite, ensuring the leafless part is buried. The pot should be kept in a warm spot with indirect sunlight and the soil should remain moist until the cutting has rooted, which usually takes a few weeks to a couple of months.
