Japanese laurel - Aucuba japonica (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images, Toxic)

Japanese laurel

Also known as: Gold dust plant

Japanese laurel is native only to Japan, and Korea, where it grows along streams and in moist woodland areas and thickets. It has been introduced sporadically in Europe, East Asia, and the US as a garden plant. It is considered invasive in Virginia.

Scientific classification

Species

Japanese laurel (Aucuba japonica)

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

Spring, Fall, Winter

Harvest Time

1 m to 5 m

Plant Height

1.5 m to 2.5 m

Spread

Green, Yellow, Variegated

Leaf Color

4 mm to 8 mm

Flower Size

Red, Burgundy

Fruit Color

Purple, Red

Flower Color

Green, Red

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Japanese laurel

Distribution of Japanese laurel

Distribution Map

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Woods, Rich forest soils, Moist valleys, Dense forests, Thickets, Streams

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Japanese laurel (Aucuba japonica) is popular for its attractive two-colored leaves and red berries. One of this plant's best features for gardeners is that it is tolerant of full shade and grows well in dark areas where other plants struggle. Its dense growth also makes it suitable for hedging. It makes for a great addition to informal or cottage gardens but also does well as a houseplant. Plantain lilies, fatsias, and blue hydrangeas make great partners for this plant.

Symbolism

Purity, rebirth, abundance, resilience

Interesting Facts

Japanese laurel is a common garden plant thanks to its ease of care and the availability of many interesting cultivars, including some variants with lightly speckled leaves and others that show more yellow than green.

Name Story

Japanese laurel: This plant combines the growth habits of azaleas with the berry appearance of holly trees, but it has no parental relationship with both of them. Its leaves appear to be more similar to the leaves from the laurel trees. As it is originated from Japan, it is called Japanese laurel.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Japanese laurel, including the following common varieties :

Japanese laurel 'Pepperspot'Japanese laurel 'Rozannie'Japanese laurel 'Crotonifolia'Spotted laurel

Toxicity

Japanese laurel is a toxic plant that can harm humans, cats, and dogs if ingested. Symptoms in humans include slight fever, vomiting, and nausea. For cats and dogs, ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Immediate veterinary care is essential if pets are suspected to have ingested japanese laurel. Owners should prevent their pets from accessing japanese laurel to avoid poisoning.uby

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Quickly Identify Japanese laurel

Lustrous, leathery elliptical leaves with variegated patterns and opposite arrangement on stem.

Persistent red to burgundy fruit, providing vibrant display from autumn to spring.

Small flowers with four purple-maroon petals and white anthers, blooming in early spring.

Ellipsoid fruit, vivid red in color, drupe-like berries up to 1/2 inch in length.

Fleshy stem, deep green to brownish hue, up to 1 inch in diameter, suitable for propagation.

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Care Guide for Japanese laurel

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full shade

Sunlight

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Japanese laurel, originating from East Asian forests, prefers humid conditions and shows drought tolerance. Water every 1-2 weeks, keeping soil moderately damp. Ideal for shaded outdoor or indoor settings, japanese laurel retains foliage year-round, efficiently managing water during seasonal changes.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, japanese laurel requires balanced fertilizer in spring and summer, switching to high nitrogen in fall. Apply moderately every 4-6 weeks, following package instructions. Over-fertilization can harm japanese laurel; thus, dilute fertilizer to half-strength to prevent root burn.

Pruning: Japanese laurel is an evergreen shrub with glossy leaves and red berries. Prune in early to late winter using clean tools at a 45-degree angle above a node. Light trimming promotes fuller growth and air circulation, reducing disease risk. Avoid heavy pruning due to slow growth.

Propagation: Japanese laurel propagates best through cuttings in spring and summer. This method is moderately easy, with new leaf growth signaling success. A humid environment is essential for optimal propagation results.

Repotting: Repot japanese laurel every 2-3 years in spring for optimal growth. Use a slightly larger, well-draining container. After repotting, maintain consistent moisture and keep out of direct sunlight to minimize stress, promoting a healthy and vibrant japanese laurel.

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Images of Japanese laurel

Distribution of Japanese laurel

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Japanese laurel

Care Guide for Japanese laurel

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