Aucuba

Aucuba japonica

shrub

A versatile evergreen shrub with glossy, often variegated (gold-spotted) foliage and inconspicuous purple flowers followed by bright red berries on female plants. Aucuba is exceptionally shade-tolerant and adaptable, thriving in poor light conditions where other plants struggle, and tolerates air pollution, poor soils, and neglect. It is invaluable for deep shade and difficult locations in woodland gardens.

Common Problems

Select the problem your Aucuba is experiencing to get a treatment guide.

warning

Yellow Leaveschevron_right

warning

Brown Tipschevron_right

warning

Slow Growthchevron_right

warning

Underwateringchevron_right

Care Guide

light_mode

Light

Shade to part shade (2–4 hours indirect light). Tolerates deep shade better than most shrubs. Variegation best in bright indirect light; avoid intense direct sun.

water_drop

Water

Moderate water needs. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during growing season. Reduce watering in winter. Tolerates some dry periods once established.

compost

Soil

Tolerates poor to moderately fertile soil. Prefers well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil but highly adaptable. Suits clay and compacted soils.

science

Fertiliser

Low to moderate requirements. Apply balanced fertilizer in spring, or balanced slow-release fertilizer. Generally thrives without supplemental feeding.

thermometer

Temperature

Moderate to cool temperatures preferred. Hardy to cold winters; tolerates frost well. Avoid excessive heat and prolonged drought stress.

humidity_percentage

Humidity

Moderate to high humidity preferred. Suits humid, shaded locations. Light misting beneficial in dry indoor conditions or heat. Tolerates air pollution.

Toxicity

dangerousToxic to CatsdangerousToxic to DogsdangerousToxic to Children

Toxic to cats, dogs, and children. Ingestion of berries, leaves, or stems can cause gastrointestinal upset, salivation, and vomiting. Keep away from children and pets.

Common Diseases

coronavirusRoot Rotchevron_right coronavirusLeaf Spotchevron_right

Common Pests

pest_controlSpider Miteschevron_right pest_controlScalechevron_right pest_controlMealybugschevron_right

Seasonal Care

local_floristspring

Resume regular watering and feeding as growth picks up.

light_modesummer

Peak growing season. Water and feed regularly.

ecoautumn

Reduce watering as growth slows. Stop heavy feeding.

ac_unitwinter

Minimal watering and feeding. Protect from frost if needed.