shrub

Japanese Aucuba

Aucuba japonica 'Shilpot'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

48 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average to high

Lifespan

Many years

Native To

Japan

Toxicity

Berries are mildly toxic if ingested.

The Story

Plant Bio

Aucuba japonica 'Shilpot' is an evergreen shrub featuring glossy, dark green leaves often mottled with yellow or gold, and small, inconspicuous flowers followed by bright red berries in winter. This cultivar is valued for its variegated foliage that provides ornamental interest year-round and its tolerance of shady, difficult garden conditions.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides year-round greenery with shiny foliage, ideal for shaded gardens.

Resilient to pollution and urban conditions, requiring minimal care.

Attracts birds with its dense foliage, supporting local wildlife.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Select a shaded or partially shaded site with well-draining soil.
Tuck young plants into the ground after the last frost, water thoroughly.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize lightly in early spring with balanced fertilizer.
Prune lightly in late winter to shape and remove dead or damaged branches.

Pro Tip

Ensure good shade and avoid overwatering for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
Prune to maintain shape after winter ❌
Mulch annually to retain soil moisture

Don't

Avoid excessive sun exposure ❌
Don't over-fertilize, which can cause leggy growth
Refrain from heavy pruning in summer

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Plant
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shade-loving evergreen hedgePrivacy screen with glossy foliage

Companion Plants

Hosta Ferns Astilbe Heuchera Japanese Maple

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Japanese Aucuba questions

What zones can Japanese Aucuba grow in?

Japanese Aucuba is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Japanese Aucuba deer resistant?

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

When does Japanese Aucuba bloom?

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

Does Japanese Aucuba need full sun?

Japanese Aucuba does best in part shade.