Bolder in foliage than the well known ‘Gold Dust’ plant, Aucuba japonica picturata is a species that adds vibrancy to a dark position in the garden. A medium sized evergreen shrub ‘Picturata’ is grown for the large glossy foliage with a bold splash of gold in the centre of each leaf.
Reaching around 2 – 3m in height with a similar spread this a shade loving plant in Australian conditions. Flowers are insignificant however they are followed by attractive red berries.
A very useful landscaping plant for shaded positions. With strongly marked foliage Aucuba japonica ‘Picturata’ is a bolder addition to the garden, a little more striking than the common form.
Also excellent in a container in a shaded position, where the striking foliage adds a lift to dark areas.
Care
A humus rich deep soil is best. Water in new plants with a liquid seaweed fertiliser to promote good root growth. Watering during long dry spells will be required although in a good shaded position you will find that little extra water is required once established.
- Height – Will reach around 2 metres in height.
- Spread – To around 1m.
- Soil – Humus rich.
- Position – Dappled shade.
Aucuba japonica ‘Picturata’ can be pruned after the danger of frost is over. Older plants can be pruned back fairly hard if required.
- Does not tolerate seaside conditions well
- Does not tolerate high humidity