Aucuba japonica 'Crotonifolia' - Spotted Laurel
This striking evergreen shrub is renowned for its bold variegated foliage that brightens shaded areas throughout the year. The large, glossy green leaves are generously splashed with bright golden-yellow spots, creating a cheerful display even in the darkest corners of the garden.
Seasonal Highlights
Year-round interest from the vibrant variegated foliage. Small purple flowers appear in spring, followed by bright red berries on female plants in autumn and winter, providing valuable food for birds and additional ornamental appeal.
Key Features
- Bold gold-splashed evergreen foliage
- Exceptional shade tolerance
- Pollution and drought tolerant once established
- Bright red berries on female plants
- Reliable and low maintenance
Perfect For
Ideal for shaded borders, north-facing walls, and urban gardens where pollution may be an issue. Excellent as a specimen shrub, informal hedge, or in containers. Works particularly well in Victorian-style gardens and provides reliable structure in difficult shaded positions.
Growing Tips
Plant in any well-drained soil in partial to full shade. Tolerates sun but colours are best in shade. Prune in spring if needed to maintain shape or restrict size. Water during establishment and prolonged dry spells. Apply general fertiliser in spring for best foliage colour.
Looks Great With
Combines beautifully with shade-loving perennials like ferns, hostas, and hellebores. Plant alongside dark green evergreens such as box or holly for striking contrast. Complements spring bulbs and shade-tolerant ground covers like ivy or pachysandra.
A dependable choice for adding year-round brightness to challenging shaded areas.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.
