Japanese laurel Aucuba japonica 'Mr Goldstrike' (m/v)
ABOUT
Aucuba japonica 'Mr Goldstrike', often simply referred to as Japanese laurel, is a distinctive ornamental shrub with a striking appearance that stands out in garden spaces. The plant has an evergreen nature, maintaining its presence throughout the seasons. The most notable characteristic of 'Mr Goldstrike' is its glossy, leathery leaves with a unique variegation pattern. Each leaf features a deep green background that is liberally splashed with yellow to golden spots and blotches, creating an eye-catching speckled effect. This variegation gives the appearance that the leaves have been spray-painted with gold paint, lending the plant its common prefix 'Mr Goldstrike'. Leaves of the Japanese laurel are broad and elongated, with a somewhat wavy or undulating margin, adding a textural dimension to the plant's overall look. Their arrangement on the stems is opposite, which means the leaves grow in pairs directly across from each other along the branch. During certain times of the year, the plant may produce small purple to red berries. These berries typically add another layer of interest to the shrub's appearance, offering a contrast against the variegated foliage. It is worth noting that 'Mr Goldstrike' can adapt to a range of lighting conditions, though its leaf coloration may be most vivid when the plant gets adequate light. Its ability to maintain an attractive appearance with minimal care makes it a beloved choice among gardeners looking for ornamental plants that offer year-round visual interest.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Garryaceae.
Synonyms
Japanese Laurel, Spotted Laurel, Gold Dust Plant, Japanese Aucuba, Variegated Aucuba.
Common names
Aucuba japonica 'Mr. Goldstrike'
ToxicityTo humans
The Japanese laurel, commonly referred to as Aucuba japonica 'Mr Goldstrike', is considered to have a degree of toxicity. If ingested by humans, it can lead to various symptoms such as gastrointestinal issues, like vomiting and diarrhea. It is important to avoid ingesting any part of the plant due to the potential for these upsetting symptoms.
To pets
The Japanese laurel is also toxic to pets if ingested. Consumption can cause similar symptoms as in humans, including vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and in some cases, more severe reactions depending on the amount consumed and the size of the pet. Care should be taken to prevent pets from chewing or ingesting any part of this plant to avoid these possible consequences.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Variegated
Height
6 feet (1.8 meters)
Spread
4 feet (1.2 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Japan
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Aucuba japonica 'Mr Goldstrike', commonly known as Japanese laurel, has strikingly variegated gold and green foliage that adds year-round visual interest to gardens.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, Japanese laurel requires minimal care, making it an ideal plant for busy gardeners or those looking for low-maintenance landscaping.
- Shade Tolerance: This plant thrives in partial to full shade, providing an excellent solution for underplanting or brightening up shaded areas where other plants may struggle.
- Drought Resistance: Japanese laurel can withstand periods of dryness once established, which is beneficial in areas prone to drought or for gardeners who prefer to conserve water.
- Pest Resistance: Japanese laurel is generally resistant to pests, reducing the need for chemical interventions and fostering a more natural garden environment.
- Versatility: It can be used in a variety of landscape settings, including container gardening, borders, hedges, and as a specimen plant, offering numerous design possibilities.
- Year-Round Interest: In addition to its foliage, Japanese laurel produces small, purple-maroon flowers in the spring, followed by red berries in the fall, providing multiple seasons of interest.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Privacy Screens: Aucuba japonica 'Mr. Goldstrike', also known as 'Gold Dust Plant', can be planted in a row to create a dense, evergreen privacy screen that blocks unwanted views and creates a secluded feeling.
- Wildlife Shelter: The thick foliage of the Gold Dust Plant provides excellent shelter and nesting spots for small birds and other wildlife.
- Artistic Inspiration: Artists and photographers often use the striking leaves of this plant as a subject for artistic works due to their unique gold-speckled appearance.
- Flower Arrangements: The shiny leaves of the Gold Dust Plant can be used in floral arrangements to add a touch of greenery and variegation.
- Themed Gardens: This plant can be utilized in gold-themed gardens to maintain a consistent color scheme, especially in areas of partial to full shade.
- Educational Tool: Horticulture educators can use Aucuba japonica 'Mr. Goldstrike' to teach about plant variegation and adaptation to shade conditions.
- Container Gardening: Due to its compact size and tolerance for shade, it's well suited for growing in containers on patios or balconies where sunlight may be limited.
- Cultural Symbolism: In some cultures, the Gold Dust Plant can symbolize good fortune, making it a thoughtful plant for gift giving.
- Mitigating Soil Erosion: The plant’s root system helps stabilize soil in shady areas where other plants might struggle to grow, thus preventing erosion.
- Cosmetic Design: The leaves may be used in design studios for creating nature-inspired prints or patterns for fabrics and wallpaper.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Japanese laurel is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Japanese laurel is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resistance and Adaptability: Aucuba japonica, commonly known as Japanese Laurel, often symbolizes resistance and adaptability because it can thrive in a variety of soil types and withstand urban pollution.
- Prosperity: With the 'Mr Goldstrike' variety featuring golden spots on its leaves, it is sometimes associated with prosperity and wealth.
- Protection: Japanese Laurel has been used in traditional gardens, sometimes indicating a desire for protection or shelter, as it can form dense, protective shrubs.
- Longevity: Due to its hardy nature and evergreen leaves, Japanese Laurel symbolizes longevity and endurance through challenging times.
WaterGold Dust plant should be watered thoroughly, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. In general, this may mean watering approximately once a week, but frequency can vary with environmental conditions. During the growing season in spring and summer, water the plant with about one to two gallons, depending on the size of the plant and the pot. In fall and winter, reduce watering to every other week or when the soil is dry to the touch. Always use room temperature water to avoid shock to the root system.
LightGold Dust plant thrives in bright, indirect sunlight but can also tolerate some shade. Avoid placing the plant in direct sun, which can scorch the leaves. The ideal spot is near a north or east-facing window where it receives filtered light throughout the day. If natural light is limited, supplement with grow lights to provide the right light conditions for healthy growth.
TemperatureGold Dust plant prefers a temperate climate with temperatures between 60 to 75°F for optimal growth. It can tolerate a minimum indoor temperature of 50°F during the winter months. The plant should not be exposed to temperatures below 45°F or above 80°F for extended periods, as extreme temperatures can stress the plant.
PruningPrune Gold Dust plant to maintain shape and remove any dead or diseased foliage. The best time for pruning is in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Pruning can be done once a year or as needed to control the size of the plant. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to make clean cuts, which will help the plant heal more quickly.
CleaningAs needed
SoilJapanese Laurel 'Mr Goldstrike' thrives in well-draining, moist soil rich in organic matter with a pH between 5.0 to 6.5. A soil mix containing peat moss, perlite, and pine bark is ideal for ensuring proper aeration and moisture retention. Regularly incorporate compost to maintain fertility.
RepottingJapanese Laurel 'Mr Goldstrike' generally needs repotting every 2 to 3 years. Choose springtime for repotting, when the plant is entering a period of active growth, and always select a pot that is only one size larger than its current container to avoid overpotting.
Humidity & MistingJapanese Laurel 'Mr Goldstrike' prefers moderate to high humidity levels, with optimal conditions being around 40-60% relative humidity. If indoor air is dry, especially during winter months, a humidifier or pebble tray with water beneath the plant can help maintain appropriate humidity levels.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and maintain high humidity.
Outdoor
Protect from direct sun, shelter from wind, mulch well.
Hardiness zone
6-10 USDA
Life cycleAucuba japonica 'Mr Goldstrike', commonly known as Gold Dust Aucuba, begins its life cycle when seeds germinate in moist, well-drained soil, under shady conditions. After sprouting, the seedling stage involves the establishment of a root system and the development of a few initial leaves. As the plant enters the vegetative stage, it grows steadily, producing its characteristic glossy, green leaves with gold speckling. In the reproductive stage, if a female variant of this dioecious species, it will develop small purple flowers in the spring, which, if pollinated by a male plant, will produce red berries in the fall. Throughout its life, the Gold Dust Aucuba requires minimal pruning but may be shaped to maintain a desirable size and form. This evergreen shrub can live for many years, and with appropriate care, it will continue to mature and thrive in partial to full shade gardens.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Aucuba japonica 'Mr. Goldstrike', commonly known as Gold Dust Aucuba, is most effectively propagated through the method of semi-hardwood cuttings. This process involves taking a cutting from the plant during the late summer to early fall when the current year's growth has started to mature but is not yet fully hardened. The chosen cutting should be about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long, and its lower leaves should be removed. The cut end of the stem is then dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development and planted in a well-draining soil mixture. The cutting should be kept moist and in a shaded location until roots have developed, after which it can be transplanted to a more permanent location.
