Spotted Laurel

Spotted Laurel Overview

Aucuba japonica is an evergreen shrub species from which many cultivars and hybrids have been developed. Its large leaves are mid-green, waxy, tooth-edged and splashed with pale yellow 'spots'. Small purple, spring flowers are followed by large glossy red fruit, on female plants. A. japonica can light up shady corners and it makes an excellent dense screen/hedge for an urban or coastal garden, as it copes well with urban pollution and salt air. It is easy to look after and resilient - thriving in inhospitable, shady areas of the garden where other plants struggle. All parts toxic if ingested.