Aucuba japonica 'Variegata'

Aucuba japonica 'Variegata' – Spotted Laurel (2 Litre Pot)

Plant Highlights: Bright gold-speckled evergreen foliage • Thrives in shade and partial shade • Excellent year-round structure • Ideal for difficult, shaded areas • Low-maintenance and reliable

Overview

Aucuba japonica 'Variegata', commonly known as Spotted Laurel, is a tough, evergreen shrub valued for its glossy green leaves generously splashed with bright golden-yellow markings. The colourful foliage brings year-round interest to shaded borders and woodland gardens, brightening areas where many other shrubs struggle.

Supplied in a 2 litre pot, this versatile shrub is ideal for mixed borders, informal hedging and foundation planting. Its robust nature and attractive foliage make it a dependable choice for gardens across Ireland.

Plant Details

Growing Guide

Plant in partial shade or shade in fertile, well-drained soil. While established plants are adaptable to a range of soil types, they perform best where the soil does not become waterlogged during winter. Shelter from strong, cold winds can help protect the foliage, particularly in more exposed locations.

Water regularly during the first growing season to help establish a strong root system. Once established, this shrub requires little routine care. Prune lightly in spring if needed to maintain its shape or remove damaged stems.

Why We Love It

Spotted Laurel is one of the most dependable shrubs for shaded gardens. Its boldly variegated foliage provides colour throughout the year, making it invaluable for brightening darker corners and creating contrast with other evergreen plants.

Perfect For

• Shaded borders
• Woodland gardens
• Foundation planting
• Informal hedging
• Courtyard gardens
• Low-maintenance planting

Product Information

• Supplied in a 2 litre pot.
• Evergreen shrub.
• Glossy green foliage with bright golden-yellow variegation.
• Small purple flowers in spring.
• Ideal for shade and partial shade.
• Best grown in fertile, well-drained soil.

Good to Know: The 2 litre pot refers to the container size at the time of sale and not the mature size of the shrub. As 'Variegata' is a female selection, bright red berries may develop in autumn only if a compatible male Aucuba japonica is growing nearby to provide pollination.