Spotted Laurel Aucuba japonica 'Variegata' (f/v)
ABOUT
The Aucuba japonica 'Variegata', commonly known as the Spotted Laurel or Gold Dust Plant, is a striking shrub noted for its glossy green leaves heavily speckled with yellow splashes or spots. The speckled pattern gives the foliage an almost shimmering effect, particularly in the dappled sunlight. The leaves are broad, with a leathery texture and an elliptical shape that tapers to a point at the tip. They are arranged oppositely on the stems, creating a dense and bushy appearance. In addition to its variegated leaves, the Gold Dust Plant may produce small purple flowers during the spring, which are rather inconspicuous against the brightness of the foliage. These flowers can develop into bright red berries in the fall and winter, providing a contrast to the yellow and green of the leaves and adding winter interest to the landscape. The berries are often appreciated by birds, adding ecological value to the garden. Overall, the Gold Dust Plant is known for its vibrant foliage, which can bring a splash of year-round color to shady areas where other plants may struggle to thrive.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Garryaceae
Synonyms
Spotted Laurel, Japanese Laurel, Gold Dust Plant, Variegated Japanese Aucuba
Common names
Aucuba japonica f. variegata, Aucuba japonica var. variegata.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as spotted laurel is considered to have low toxicity to humans. Ingesting parts of the spotted laurel can potentially cause mild symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea, but it is not typically considered highly dangerous.
To pets
The spotted laurel is also known to be only mildly toxic to pets. If pets ingest parts of the plant, they might experience symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain. Although it's not highly toxic, it's still advisable to prevent pets from eating the plant to avoid these unpleasant effects.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Mixed
Height
6 feet (1.83 meters)
Spread
6 feet (1.83 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Japan
Benefits
General Benefits- Easy to care for: Aucuba japonica 'Variegata' is known for its low maintenance requirements, making it suitable for novice gardeners.
- Drought resistant: Once established, it can tolerate periods of dryness, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Shade tolerance: This plant thrives in partial to full shade, making it ideal for planting in dimly lit areas where other plants might struggle.
- Attractive foliage: The Variegated Aucuba's striking yellow-spotted leaves add visual interest to garden spaces throughout the year.
- Pest resistance: The plant is relatively resistant to pests, lowering the need for chemical treatments.
- Dense growth habit: It can serve as a privacy screen or hedge due to its bushy growth, which also provides shelter for wildlife.
- Tolerance to pollution: This plant is suitable for urban gardens as it copes well with higher levels of pollution.
- Versatility in landscaping: It can be used in various design contexts, from foundation plantings to container gardening.
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 'Variegata', commonly known as spotted laurel, is often used in the creation of topiary gardens due to its dense foliage and the ability to tolerate heavy pruning into various shapes.
- Spotted laurel branches can be used for floral arrangements, especially in winter, as its variegated leaves add color and texture to bouquets and indoor displays.
- The leaves of the spotted laurel can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, giving a range of colors from yellows to greens depending on the mordant used.
- In craft projects, the waxy, broad leaves can be used for leaf rubbing or printing to create ornamental patterns on paper or fabric.
- The dense shrubbery of spotted laurel can be used as a natural privacy screen or hedge in gardens or around patios, offering seclusion and aesthetic appeal.
- Spotted laurel is occasionally used in terrariums and large fairy gardens due to its tolerance of shade and ability to add a lush, green background.
- When dried, the leaves of spotted laurel can be incorporated into potpourri mixes for a subtle greenery effect and to contribute bulk to the mixture.
- The wood of spotted laurel can be utilized in small woodworking projects as an ornamental element because of its durability and interesting texture when polished.
- In garden design, spotted laurel can contribute to foliage contrast when paired with plants having different leaf shapes or colors, enhancing the overall visual interest of the landscape.
- Culinary establishments sometimes use the variegated leaves of the spotted laurel as a decorative element on platters or as a base for cheese and fruit displays, despite the plant being non-edible and toxic if ingested.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Gold Dust Plant is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Gold Dust Plant is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: The hardy nature of Aucuba japonica 'Variegata', commonly known as spotted laurel, symbolizes the ability to withstand challenging conditions and adversity.
- Protection: In some cultures, the spotted laurel is believed to ward off negative energies or spirits, symbolizing safety and shelter.
- Contrast and Balance: Its leaves, with splashes of yellow against a dark green backdrop, represent the importance of contrast and balance in life.
- Prosperity: The glossy and vibrant appearance of its foliage is often associated with wealth and the vibrant growth reflects a flourishing state.
WaterFor the Gold Dust Plant, water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which usually equates to every 7-10 days, depending on the temperature and humidity. It is important not to let the soil dry out completely but also to avoid waterlogging the plant. When watering, use room temperature water and apply it slowly at the soil level until it begins to drain from the bottom of the pot. An approximate amount would be about half to three-quarters of a gallon for a medium-sized pot in a single watering session, adjusting based on plant size and environmental conditions. It's critical to ensure the pot has adequate drainage to prevent root rot.
LightThe Gold Dust Plant prefers to be positioned in a spot that offers bright, indirect sunlight or partial shade. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while too little light can lead to loss of variegation. An ideal location is near a north-facing window or a shaded eastern or western exposure that provides filtered light most of the day. Ensure the plant is protected from the hot midday sun to maintain the health and variegated pattern of its foliage.
TemperatureThe Gold Dust Plant thrives best in temperatures between 60°F and 75°F and should be protected from extreme cold, with a minimum temperature tolerance of around 50°F. It can handle brief periods of higher temperatures but prolonged exposure can be detrimental. Avoid placing the plant near cold drafts or heating vents that can cause sudden temperature fluctuations which might stress the plant.
PruningPruning the Gold Dust Plant is essential to maintain its dense, bushy shape and to promote new growth. Prune lightly in early spring, before the onset of new growth, to remove any dead or damaged branches and to shape the plant. Also, selectively thin out crowded branches to improve air circulation. Pruning should be done sparingly and not too often, typically once a year or as needed to control size.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFor the Japanese Laurel, the best soil mix is well-draining with a high organic matter content; use a combination of peat, pine bark, and coarse sand or perlite. The ideal pH for this plant is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from about 5.5 to 7.5.
RepottingJapanese Laurels should be repotted every two to three years to ensure they have enough room to grow. Choose a container that is slightly larger than the root ball when repotting.
Humidity & MistingThe Japanese Laurel prefers moderate to high humidity levels, ideally ranging from 40% to 60%, to thrive best.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect sunlight and water moderately.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, shelter from strong winds, keep moist.
Hardiness zone
7-10 USDA
Life cycleAucuba japonica 'Variegata', commonly known as the Variegated Japanese Laurel or Spotted Laurel undergoes several key stages in its life. The plant begins its life cycle when seeds germinate in moist, well-drained soil, typically in shady conditions. After sprouting, the seedling stage involves initial leaf development and root system establishment. As the plant enters the vegetative stage, it develops its characteristic glossy, green leaves speckled with yellow or light green, which persist year-round as it's an evergreen shrub. The reproductive stage occurs when it produces small, purple-maroon flowers, usually in the spring, requiring a male plant nearby for fertilization if berry production is desired. Upon successful pollination, female plants produce bright red berries that mature in the fall and can disperse to give rise to new plants, thus completing the life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagation for the Japanese Laurel, often referred to by its variegated cultivar name Aucuba japonica 'Variegata', is via semi-hardwood cuttings. This process is typically done in late summer to early autumn. To propagate, one must take a cutting of about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) long from a healthy parent plant, ensuring at least a couple of leaves are included. The lower leaves should be removed and the cut end of the stem can be dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root development. The stem should then be planted in a pot filled with a mixture of peat and perlite or sand to provide good drainage. The pot should be kept in a well-lit area, out of direct sunlight, and should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Roots can be expected to develop in a few weeks, after which the new plant can gradually be acclimatized to its permanent location.
