Variegated Gold Dust Aucuba

Variegated Gold Dust Aucuba (Aucuba japonica 'Variegata')

Variegated Gold Dust Aucuba is a shade-loving evergreen shrub with glossy green leaves splashed and mottled in bright yellow, adding year-round color to dim sites. Its dense, upright habit thrives in shade to part shade, bringing dependable structure to foundations, woodland edges, and protected entries.

Distinctive Features

Bold gold variegation brightens low light while thick, leathery leaves and sturdy stems offer durable texture and a clean outline in sheltered locations.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Shade to part shade; protect from hot afternoon sun and winter wind.
• Soil: Moist, well drained, organic-rich soil; tolerates dry shade once established.
• Water: Moderate; keep evenly moist during establishment, then water in prolonged dry periods.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 6 to 10.
• Mature Size: 4 to 6 ft tall and 3 to 5 ft wide.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: High-contrast foliage lights up shaded entries and courtyards.
• Foundation Planting: Evergreen structure for north and east exposures.
• Shade Hedge: Forms a dense, low-maintenance screen in dappled light.
• Woodland Borders: Partners well with ferns, hellebores, and hydrangeas.
• Containers: Performs in sheltered pots with consistent moisture and drainage.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water deeply to establish; thereafter, water during extended drought to prevent leaf scorch.
• Pruning: Tip prune or thin lightly after spring growth to shape; avoid hard cuts into old wood.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release shrub fertilizer or compost in early spring.
• Mulching: Maintain a 2 to 3 in mulch layer to conserve moisture and protect roots.
• Notes: Site out of winter wind; for ornamental berries, plant with a compatible pollinator nearby.

Why Choose Variegated Gold Dust Aucuba?

• Shade Brightener: Gold-speckled foliage adds color where most shrubs fade.
• Evergreen Structure: Year-round leaf gloss anchors shaded plantings.
• Urban Tolerant: Adapts to dry shade and splash in protected sites.
• Low Upkeep: Minimal pruning and simple moisture needs.
• Design Versatility: Works as specimen, hedge, or container accent.

Plant in shade to part shade with protection from wind, keep soil evenly moist during establishment, and prune lightly to maintain a dense, colorful silhouette.