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Aucuba japonica, commonly known as spotted laurel, is a remarkably resilient and low-maintenance evergreen shrub. This hardworking plant is a valuable addition to any garden, providing year-round structure and visual interest. Its adaptability extends to shady locations, where its large, glossy leaves truly thrive. While it exhibits a moderate growth rate, faster than many evergreen counterparts but not as rapid as some deciduous shrubs, it establishes itself reliably.
The true appeal of Aucuba japonica lies in its striking foliage. The substantial, lustrous leaves present a diverse palette of colours and patterns, ranging from deep green to captivating variegations of white or yellow, and even vibrant yellow splashes. Female varieties offer an extra touch of beauty in autumn, producing bright red berries, approximately 1cm in diameter, provided a male plant is nearby for pollination. These berries often persist throughout the winter months. Notably, some cultivars are hermaphroditic, bearing both male and female flowers on the same plant. Adaptable to a wide range of soil types and tolerant of urban pollution, Aucuba is a popular and practical choice for city gardens.
It is important to note that Aucuba japonica is considered mildly toxic. Ingestion of any part of the plant may cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. Therefore, it is advisable to wear gloves when handling the plant to prevent potential skin irritation and to wash hands thoroughly afterwards. Extra caution should be taken with young children, as the bright red berries can be tempting but are not safe to eat.
For successful establishment, plant your Aucuba in autumn or early spring, ensuring the ground is not frozen. The plant demonstrates versatility in its light requirements, thriving in sunny, partially shaded, or fully shaded locations, depending on the specific variety. Consistent moisture is crucial during the initial growing season. Pruning, if desired to manage size, should be carried out in spring.
Aucuba japonica is a versatile evergreen shrub suitable for various garden settings. It integrates well into mixed borders and woodland gardens. It can also be used to create an informal hedge, provided there is at least 1.5 metres of space for its natural growth, as it does not respond well to regular, formal trimming. When selecting a planting location, consider the variety's light preference: sun, partial shade, or full shade are all suitable. However, variegated types benefit from partial shade to prevent leaf scorch. Consistent watering is important during the first growing season and throughout periods of hot, dry weather.
Aucuba exhibits remarkable adaptability, flourishing in a wide array of soils and conditions, including poor soils and areas with polluted air, even tolerating dry shade. For optimal growth, aim for fertile, moisture-retentive soil that is also well-draining. Planting is best undertaken in spring or autumn. Ensure the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding ground. After planting, water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots and maintain consistent moisture during dry spells in the first growing season.
Once established in the ground, Aucubas require minimal attention. Applying an annual mulch of composted bark or garden compost helps to improve soil drainage, suppress weed growth, reduce soil erosion, and enhance soil nutrition and water retention. A general fertiliser applied each spring can be beneficial. During hot, dry weather, ensure adequate watering.
Pruning Your Aucuba
Aucuba generally does not require regular pruning. However, if necessary to restrict its size or to remove any dead or damaged branches, pruning can be carried out in the spring.
Propagating Aucuba
Aucuba can be successfully propagated through both seed and cuttings.
Propagation by Seed: Sow seeds from female varieties in pots and place them in a sheltered outdoor location to germinate and grow.
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Propagation by Cuttings: Take semi-ripe cuttings in the summer. Select healthy shoots from the current year's growth that have just begun to become woody.
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Additional Propagation Tips:
Once established in a suitable location, Aucubas are generally trouble-free.
Brown or Black Patches
Scorching from direct sunlight can affect variegated Aucuba varieties. To prevent this, avoid planting them in locations that receive intense sun during the hottest part of the day. The lack of chlorophyll in the variegated areas makes them more susceptible to sun damage.
Additional Tip: If you must plant a variegated Aucuba in a sunny location, try to choose a spot that receives morning sun, which is typically less intense than afternoon sun.
Wilting Leaves
Waterlogged soil can lead to root rot, which can ultimately cause the plant to die. Ensure good drainage to prevent this issue.
Self-Seedling
Female Aucuba varieties can sometimes self-seed prolifically. To prevent unwanted seedlings, simply pick off the berries at the end of winter.
Notably, Aucuba is generally resistant to significant pests and diseases.
A limited selection of Aucuba japonica is typically available in most garden centres, while a wide variety can be found online.
During the autumn and winter months, aucubas are often available as root-balled plants rather than container-grown specimens. These can offer better value for money in terms of plant size.
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