Also known as Gold Dust · Gold Dust Laurel · Japán Babérsom
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Aucuba japonica, or Japanese Aucuba, is a hardy evergreen shrub. Known for its glossy, often variegated leaves and bright red berries that persist through winter. It thri
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Prefers full to partial shade; avoid direct sun.
30% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
60% intensity
Well-drained, humus-rich, slightly acidic to neutral.
50% intensity
Ideal between 10-24 °C; hardy to -15 °C.
60% intensity
Outdoor, Indoor
50% intensity
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring.
40% intensity
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 4/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 4/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
All parts, especially berries, contain aucubin and other glycosides, causing gastrointestinal upset if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Japanese Aucuba prefers consistently moist soil, especially during dry periods and its active growing season. Water deeply when the top few centimeters of soil feel dry to the touch.
Reduce watering frequency in winter, but do not allow the soil to dry out completely, particularly for container-grown plants. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Prune Japanese Aucuba in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches.
You can also prune to maintain desired size and shape, or to thin out dense growth for better air circulation. Hard pruning is tolerated if rejuvenation is needed.
Aucuba japonica is easily propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late summer or early autumn. Cuttings should be 10-15 cm long, with lower leaves removed.
Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining potting mix. Keep moist and in a warm, humid environment until rooted.
Repot container-grown Japanese Aucuba every 2-3 years, or when it becomes root-bound. Choose a pot one size larger than the current one. Use a fresh, well-draining potting mix.
The best time for repotting is in spring before active growth resumes. Ensure the plant is watered thoroughly after repotting.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Japanese Aucuba (Aucuba japonica)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Garryales |
| Family | Garryaceae |
| Genus | Aucuba |
| Species | Aucuba japonica |
Similar in genus Aucuba
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
