shrub

Gold-edged Japanese Laurel

Aucuba japonica 'Limbata'

$29.00

The Story

Plant Bio

Aucuba japonica 'Limbata' is a evergreen shrub known for its attractive foliage. The leaves are variegated with creamy white margins.

This cultivar is particularly valued for its striking leaf coloration, making it a great choice for adding brightness to shady areas.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesAucuba japonica Limbata adds vibrant variegated foliage and year-round greenery, enhancing shaded garden areas.
Practical UsesServes as a low-maintenance hedge that provides privacy and wind protection.
Ecological BenefitsProvides shelter for birds and beneficial insects in shaded garden habitats.
SpeciesAucuba japonicaJapanese Aucuba

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

72 inches

Width

72 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average to high

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Japan, China

Toxicity

Berries are mildly toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Late spring – Early summer

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

In flower about 2 months of the year

Marketplace

Where to Buy

<1 Gal Pot1+ Gal Pot
In Stock$29.00

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage rooting.
  3. Plant in well-drained, fertile soil with partial shade for optimal growth.
  4. Gradually acclimate young plants to outdoor conditions over a week.
  5. Water consistently during the first growing season to establish roots.
  6. Mulch around the base to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Use shaded areas for planting to prevent leaf scorch and ensure healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly but avoid waterlogging 🌱
  • Prune after flowering to maintain shape
  • Feed with a balanced fertilizer in spring
  • Mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

  • Avoid overexposing to direct harsh sunlight ❌
  • Do not neglect pruning, which helps maintain plant health
  • Avoid excessive fertilizing that can cause leaf burn
  • Refrain from planting in poorly drained areas

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Mulch
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shade-loving evergreen hedgeOrnamental border with glossy foliage

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Japanese Maples Azaleas Camellias

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Gold-edged Japanese Laurel questions

What zones can Gold-edged Japanese Laurel grow in?

Gold-edged Japanese Laurel is hardy in USDA Zones 6–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Gold-edged Japanese Laurel deer resistant?

Yes — Gold-edged Japanese Laurel is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Gold-edged Japanese Laurel bloom?

Gold-edged Japanese Laurel typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Gold-edged Japanese Laurel need full sun?

Gold-edged Japanese Laurel does best in part shade.

Is Gold-edged Japanese Laurel drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Gold-edged Japanese Laurel handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow Gold-edged Japanese Laurel with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.