Aucuba Japonica Crotonifolia
Contents
Description
Aucuba Japonica Crotonifolia, also known as Japanese laurel, is an evergreen shrub native to eastern Asia. It can grow up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide, with a dense, upright growth habit. The leaves of Aucuba Japonica Crotonifolia are large, glossy, and leathery, with a distinct yellow variegation. Inconspicuous flowers bloom in late winter to early spring, followed by bright red berries that persist through the winter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Garryales |
| Family | Garryaceae |
| Genus | Aucuba |
Appearance
Aucuba Japonica Crotonifolia is a beautiful and unique plant that adds a pop of color to any garden or landscape. Its large, glossy leaves are green with bright yellow variegation, making it a standout in any setting. The leaves are also thick and leathery, making them resistant to damage from wind and harsh weather. In late winter to early spring, Aucuba Japonica Crotonifolia produces small, inconspicuous flowers that give way to bright red berries in the fall. These berries persist through the winter, adding another layer of visual interest to the plant.
Care Guide
Aucuba Japonica Crotonifolia is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your Aucuba Japonica Crotonifolia healthy and thriving:
Water: Water your Aucuba Japonica Crotonifolia regularly, especially during the growing season. It prefers moist soil but can also tolerate some dryness.
Fertilization: Fertilize your Aucuba Japonica Crotonifolia in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to leaf burn.
Soil: Aucuba Japonica Crotonifolia prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter before planting.
Sunlight: Aucuba Japonica Crotonifolia prefers partial shade to full shade. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
Hardiness Zones: Aucuba Japonica Crotonifolia is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Aucuba Japonica Crotonifolia is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to scale insects and spider mites. To prevent these pests, keep the plant well-watered and fertilized, and inspect it regularly for signs of infestation. If you notice any pests, treat the plant with a horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Aucuba Japonica Crotonifolia is native to eastern Asia, including Japan, Korea, and China. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, hillsides, and rocky slopes. In the wild, it often grows as an understory plant, thriving in the shade of larger trees.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Aucuba Japonica Crotonifolia poisonous?
A: Yes, all parts of Aucuba Japonica Crotonifolia are toxic if ingested. Keep it away from children and pets.
Q: Can Aucuba Japonica Crotonifolia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Aucuba Japonica Crotonifolia can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its root system. Make sure the container has drainage holes and use a well-draining potting mix.
Q: Does Aucuba Japonica Crotonifolia attract wildlife?
A: Yes, Aucuba Japonica Crotonifolia’s berries are attractive to birds and other wildlife, making it a great addition to a wildlife garden.
Q: Can Aucuba Japonica Crotonifolia be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Aucuba Japonica Crotonifolia can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining rooting mix. Keep the soil moist and the cuttings in a shaded area until they develop roots.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Aucuba Japonica Crotonifolia:
- Aucuba Japonica
- Aucuba Japonica Rozannie
- Aucuba Japonica Gold Dust
- Aucuba Japonica Picturata
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2009). Manual of Woody Landscape Plants: Their Identification, Ornamental Characteristics, Culture, Propagation and Uses. Champaign, IL: Stipes Publishing.
- Gardenia. (n.d.). Aucuba Japonica ‘Crotonifolia’ (Spotted Laurel). Retrieved from https://www.gardenia.net/plant/aucuba-japonica-crotonifolia-spotted-laurel
- RHS. (n.d.). Aucuba Japonica Crotonifolia. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/13341/Aucuba-japonica-Crotonifolia/Details
