{"product_id":"aucuba-japonica-crotonifolia-spotted-laurel-3-litre-pot","title":"Aucuba japonica 'Crotonifolia' - Spotted Laurel 3 Litre Pot","description":"\u003ch2\u003eAucuba japonica 'Crotonifolia' - Spotted Laurel\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSeasonal Highlights\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eYear-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.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eKey Features\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBold gold-splashed evergreen foliage\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExceptional shade tolerance\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePollution and drought tolerant once established\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBright red berries on female plants\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReliable and low maintenance\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003ePerfect For\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eIdeal 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eGrowing Tips\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003ePlant 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eLooks Great With\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eCombines 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA dependable choice for adding year-round brightness to challenging shaded areas.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Grasslands Nursery","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56700837462342,"sku":"172319","price":6.6,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0796\/7948\/8326\/files\/2232a693-458c-47b1-b748-8e5a2484d951.jpg?v=1780408416","url":"https:\/\/www.grasslands.co.uk\/products\/aucuba-japonica-crotonifolia-spotted-laurel-3-litre-pot","provider":"Grasslands Nursery","version":"1.0","type":"link"}