SCIENTIFIC NAME: Aucuba japonica 'Variegata'

COMMON NAME: Gold Dust Variegated Aucuba

GARDEN SIZE: 6-10 feet tall x 5-9 feet wide

GROWTH RATE: Moderate

USDA ZONE: 7 to 9

EXPOSURE: Full Shade to Part Shade

WATER & SOIL: Average to moist, well-drained and organically rich soil

HABIT (FORM): Rounded shrub

FOLIAGE: Evergreen; Bright green foliage heavily speckled with gold, giving an overall yellow-green appearance

FLOWERS: Purple-maroon blooms in early spring. If planted near a male aucuba (such as 'Mr. Goldstrike' or 'Shilpot'), will produce bright red berries that ripen in fall and last until spring.

PLANT ORIGIN: Japan and China

WILDLIFE SUPPORT: May provide some nesting sites and shelter for birds and small mammals, but does not serve as much of a food source for local insects and wildlife.

FERTILIZING: Use a fertilizer for acid-loving plants (such as Holly-tone) in spring and fall

PRUNING: Pruning is rarely needed but if desired it can be done in the late spring.

TOXICITY FLAGS: Generally considered mildly toxic to dogs, cats, and horses.

USES: Foundation plantings, Accents, Borders, Corner Piece