shrub

Japanese Aucuba Sagama

Aucuba japonica 'Sagama'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

72 inches

Width

72 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Many years

Native To

Japan

Toxicity

Berries are mildly toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Aucuba japonica 'Sagami' is an evergreen shrub known for its glossy, dark green, leathery leaves often adorned with yellow or gold variegation, and its small, inconspicuous flowers followed by bright red berries. This cultivar is particularly valued for its striking variegated foliage and its robust, shade-tolerant growth habit, making it an excellent choice for low-light garden areas.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides year-round greenery with glossy leaves, adding structure and visual interest to shaded gardens.

Drought-tolerant once established, requiring minimal watering and maintenance.

Attracts birds with its berries and dense foliage, supporting local wildlife.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck cuttings in moist soil for propagation, 6 weeks
Plant in well-drained, shaded location
Water regularly, especially in dry periods
Mulch around base to retain moisture
Prune to shape in early spring
Fertilize with balanced slow-release fertilizer annually

Pro Tip

Keep in shaded areas for best foliage color and health.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently during dry spells 🌱
Prune to maintain shape and remove dead branches
Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
Fertilize with a balanced feed annually

Don't

Avoid excessive sun exposure ❌
Don’t over-fertilize which can cause legginess
Never allow water to stagnate around roots

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shade-loving hedgeEvergreen border

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Japanese maples Brunnera

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Japanese Aucuba Sagama questions

What zones can Japanese Aucuba Sagama grow in?

Japanese Aucuba Sagama 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 Sagama deer resistant?

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

When does Japanese Aucuba Sagama bloom?

Japanese Aucuba Sagama 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 Sagama need full sun?

Japanese Aucuba Sagama does best in part shade.

Is Japanese Aucuba Sagama drought tolerant?

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