Aucuba japonica variegata

Common Name:
Gold Dust Plant

Description:
The Aucuba japonica 'Variegata', commonly known as the Gold Dust Plant, is an evergreen shrub prized for its striking, glossy green leaves speckled with bright yellow variegation. This hardy, shade-loving plant is perfect for adding colour and texture to low-light garden areas. It thrives in well-drained soil and is highly tolerant of drought, pollution, and coastal conditions, making it an excellent choice for Melbourne gardens. In spring, small purple flowers may appear, followed by red berries on female plants if a male pollinator is nearby. Its dense growth habit makes it ideal for hedging, borders, or container planting. Low-maintenance and resilient, Aucuba japonica 'Variegata' is an excellent option for those looking to brighten up shaded spaces with minimal effort.

Form:

• Shrub - Medium

Mature Size:

• Height: 1.5–3 m
• Width: 1.5–2.5 m

Aspect:

• Part Shade
• Full Shade

Flowering:

• Flowers in Spring

Flower Colour:

• Purple

Key Attributes:

• Suitable for Pots
• Drought Tolerant
• Shade Tolerant
• Perennial
• Suitable for Hedging
• Low Maintenance

Toxicity:

• Mildly toxic if ingested (berries may cause stomach discomfort)

Companion Plants:

• Camellia (Camellia spp.)
• Hosta (Hosta spp.)
• Ferns (Asplenium spp., Dryopteris spp.)
• Hydrangea (Hydrangea spp.)