How to Care for Aucuba japonica (Japanese aucuba)
Korean name: 식나무
An evergreen shrub with glossy, thick leaves edged with serrations. The small yellow flowers bloom in spring but the plant is mainly appreciated for its foliage. It thrives well in shade or partial shade, suitable for gardens and indoor pots.
Key facts
- Category: Garden tree & shrub
- Difficulty: Easy
- Where to keep: indoors or outdoors
- Native to: Japan, Korea, China
- Growth rate: Slow
- Pets: Mildly toxic, so keep pets from chewing on it.
- Flower meaning: youth and beauty
- Traits: evergreen, shade tolerant, cold hardy, garden shrub
- Also known as: Japanese aucuba, Spotted laurel
Care Guide
- Light: Grows well in shade or partial shade.
- Watering: Water thoroughly when the soil surface feels dry.
- Soil: Prefers well-drained soil.
- Humidity: Normal indoor humidity is sufficient.
- Temperature: 10~25°C
- Fertilizer: Apply slow-release fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Common questions
How often should you water Aucuba japonica?
Water thoroughly when the soil surface feels dry. Roughly every 7 days is the baseline; adjust for the season and the spot it sits in.
Where should you keep Aucuba japonica?
Light: Grows well in shade or partial shade. You can grow it indoors or outdoors. Soil: Prefers well-drained soil.
Is Aucuba japonica safe around pets?
Mildly toxic, so keep pets from chewing on it.
Is Aucuba japonica good for beginners?
Difficulty: Easy. It is forgiving enough for a first plant. Temperature: 10~25°C. Humidity: Normal indoor humidity is sufficient. Fertiliser: Apply slow-release fertilizer once a month during the growing season.