Aucuba Japonica ‘Crotonifolia’ is an extremely hardy and versatile evergreen shrub which is popular for its bright foliage. It is also known as the ‘Gold Dust Plant’ or ‘Spotted Laurel’ or simply Japanese Laurel. It has some quite valuable features that make it suitable for plantation in different landscapes. This compact medium-sized shrub has large leathery leaves, heavily spotted with yellow or golden colours. These brilliant speckled leaves fulfil the desire to have a garden illuminated on dull days. Aucuba Japonica is valued in floral shops for its variegation. One can recommend these shrubs as best shade plants that thrive in both cold winters and hot summers. During autumn, you can spot red berries on the female plant but they are mildly toxic and have a bitter taste. Leaves need to be protected in hot summer from the burning sun. Plant it at a shady place in summer and provide full sunlight in winters. Adding a decent loam-based compost as feed will enhance the brightness of its foliage. This Spotted Laurel blooms tiny purple flowers (not fragrant) on the female plant. These plants are wind, pollution and drought tolerant which makes them adaptive to a balcony or a city garden. Use them as a hedge outdoors or in containers. Aucuba Japonica Crotonifolia creates a lush tropical scenery in a cold winter garden.
