Aucuba japonica 'GOLDEN KING' spotted laurel, Japanese aucuba
size/type
medium-sized shrub,medium-sized shrub
usual height
1-2m
usual width
1-2m
leaves
evergreen broadleaf
colour of leaves
flowers
insignificant or non-blooming
location
semi-shade to shade
soil type
acidic (peaty) to neutral
soil moisture requirements
evenly moist (dislikes drought)
USDA zone (lowest)
7 (down to -23°C)
winter protection
for zone 5+6
for zone 7
categorized
This evergreen shrub is a commonly known favourite especially in Britain and in milder parts of humid regions of Germany and Benelux. It has several names - spotted laurel, Japanese aucuba or Japanese laurel. The first specimen was brought from Japan to Europe in 1783, and has been sought after ever since for its unusual shape of foliage and beautiful variegation on some cultivars.
Description of the plant:
Golden King is another selection of old Crotonifolia variety with heavily variegated leaves. The blotches of various size always cover at least 50% of the whole foliage area, and in spring new leaves emerge striking yellow. They are evergreen, glossy, and extremely large for a hardy plant - about 10-20 cm long and around 8 cm wide. Usually considered a house plant it is suitable for outdoor growing, too, up to USDA zone 6 (-24°C). If you wish to make sure the top of the plant will not be damaged in extreme winter frosts (below -20°C) cover the plant with white woven for the few coldest days of winter. Should the top leaves be burnt after winter, just get rid of them in the spring or prune the shrub to healthy (= green) tissue. The plant will readily regenerate from lower branches and will become even denser. Trimming or pruning is best done from April until end June latest.
It does best in part pun to light shade, and will also live happily in full shade while its variegation will not be as distinct. It needs humus-rich, constantly moist but well-drained, preferably acid to neutral soil. Provide extra watering in frost-free periods of winter when the ground is not frozen. Hardy to min. -20°C, with protection to -24°C (USDA zone 6).
Last update 15-11-2016
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