Japanese aucuba is a beautiful broadleaf evergreen shrub that can reach 6’ to 10’ high with equal or slightly greater spread. It is tolerant of heavy shade. In its native habitat it is found growing in forests in rich, moist soil near streams and shaded moist rocks, avoid overly wet soils. Established plants are tolerant of clay soil and dry conditions. 

Plants are dioecious, females can produce bright red fruits which ripen in fall and often persist on the plant until spring.

Japanese aucubas are easy to grow with few pest problems. Root rot may occur in poorly drained or overly wet soil. Occasionally dieback can occur in extremely cold winters, but plants bounce right back. Plants can be grown as a hedge, screen, background, in planters and containers or indoors as houseplants.

Popular forms are the variegated types. Cultivars include ‘Variegata’, ‘Crotonifolia’, ‘Golden King’, ‘Mr. Goldstrike’, ‘Nana’, and ‘Picturata’. Many other cultivars may be found with varying amounts of yellow spotting or larger yellow sections on the leaves.

Exposure: Part to full shade 
Soil: Medium to average moisture, tolerant of clay if well-drained 
Hardiness: USDA Zones (6) 7-10