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Aucuba japonica Picturata Variegated 3G

$28.99


Item # 5040

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Variegated 3G

Aucuba japonica 'Picturata'


Aucuba japonica (commonly called Japanese Laurel or Gold Dust Plant) is a tough, versatile, broadleaf evergreen shrub prized for its ability to thrive in deep shade where many other shrubs struggle. It features thick, leathery leaves with coarse edges, highly heat-and-humidity tolerance, and excellent resilience in well-draining soils.


  • Appearance: A strikingly variegated cultivar featuring leaves with a bold, bright golden-yellow splash in the center surrounded by deep green margins.

  • Habit & Size: Slightly larger and upright, growing to 4 to 6 feet tall and wide.

  • Role: Acts as a visual "light bulb" in dark garden beds, drawing the eye and contrasting sharply with surrounding foliage.


    • Landscaping Applications in Charleston, SC

    Charleston landscapes present specific conditions—such as grand Live Oak canopies, historic courtyard brick walls, high heat, and intense summer humidity—where Aucubas excel.

    1. Brightening Live Oak & Crape Myrtle Understories

    In historic Downtown or Lowcountry properties (like Mount Pleasant or Johns Island), dense oak canopies create dry, deep shade where turf and flowering shrubs fail.

    • Design Idea: Plant 'Picturata' beneath large Live Oaks to illuminate shadowy corners. Pair it with soft-textured shade lovers like Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior), Soft Caress Mahonia, or Autumn Ferns to create layer, texture, and visual brightness.

    2. Historic Courtyard & Terrace Containers

    Charleston courtyards often feature shaded brick plazas surrounded by tall masonry walls.

    • Design Idea: Use 'Rozannie' or 'Picturata' as a permanent evergreen "thriller" in large glazed pottery or terracotta urns. 'Rozannie' brings a classic, manicured dark green look that pairs beautifully with traditional Charleston brickwork, while its winter berries add seasonal color during the cooler Lowcountry months.

    3. Layered Foundation & Border Plantings

    Aucubas provide reliable structure against home foundations, piazzas, or shaded fence lines where direct sun is absent.

    • Design Idea: Use 'Picturata' as a mid-story accent against a dark background or fence, flanked by lower-growing 'Rozannie' or dwarf Camellias (Camellia sasanqua). Combine them with white-blooming shade plants like Formosa Azaleas or Hydrangeas for a classic Lowcountry garden scheme.

    Care Notes for Charleston:

    • Sun Protection: Aucubas require partial to full shade. Morning sun is tolerated, but hot Lowcountry afternoon sun will burn and scorch the foliage.

    • Drainage: While they handle heavy summer humidity and clay-influenced coastal soils well, they require well-draining sites to avoid root rot. Ensure bed drainage or elevated planting in low-lying Lowcountry areas.