About

Aucuba japonica 'Golden Spangles' is a compact, evergreen shrub featuring glossy green foliage adorned with golden-yellow spots. In spring, it produces clusters of small reddish-purple flowers, which are succeeded by clusters of red berries.

About the genus

Aucuba are dioecious evergreen shrubs characterized by simple, leathery foliage, with numerous cultivars showcasing attractive variegation. Male plants produce small purple flowers, while female specimens bear large, glossy red berries afterward.

Growing conditions

Sunlight

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil type

Chalk, Loam, Sand

Soil pH

Acid, Alkaline, Neutral

Soil moisture

Moist but well-drained, Well-drained

Aspect

North-facing, East-facing, West-facing

Exposure

Exposed, Sheltered

UK hardiness

H5

Plant details

Plant type

Shrubs

Habit

Bushy

Foliage

Evergreen

Height

2.5-4 metres

Spread

2.5-4 metres

Time to full height

10-20 years

Suggested uses

Architectural, Cottage and informal garden

Toxicity

Fruit is ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets: Fruit is ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers

Care notes

Cultivation

Grows well in any soil except those that are waterlogged

Pruning

Pruning group 1

Propagation

Propagate from semi-hardwood cuttings

Pest resistance

Generally pest-free

Disease resistance

May be susceptible to honey fungus