shrub

Marmorata Japanese Laurel

Aucuba japonica 'Marmorata'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

96 inches

Width

72 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Many years

Native To

Japan

Toxicity

All parts are mildly toxic if ingested.

The Story

Plant Bio

Aucuba japonica is a rounded, shade-loving, evergreen shrub with large, glossy, leathery leaves. It produces small purple flowers in early spring, followed by bright red berries on female plants if a male pollinator is present. 'Marmorata' is a female cultivar prized for its striking foliage, which is heavily marbled and blotched with creamy yellow, creating a 'marbled' effect. It provides excellent year-round color in deep shade.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides evergreen color and variegation year-round, enhancing shaded areas.

Low-maintenance shrub with good drought tolerance once established.

Attracts birds with its berries and dense foliage.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a shady spot with well-drained soil.
Tuck young plants into prepared holes, ensuring roots are covered.
Water thoroughly after planting and keep soil moist.
Mist foliage regularly to maintain humidity, especially in dry climates.
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Prune lightly in early spring to shape and remove dead branches.

Pro Tip

Prefers partial shade and consistent moisture for best variegation.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Prune lightly to shape and remove dead growth
Mulch annually to conserve moisture

Don't

Avoid full sun exposure which can scorch leaves ❌
Do not let soil dry out completely
Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent leaf burn

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 garden backdropEvergreen hedge with variegated foliageLow-maintenance border plant

Companion Plants

Hosta Ferns Heuchera Japanese Maple Azalea

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Marmorata Japanese Laurel questions

What zones can Marmorata Japanese Laurel grow in?

Marmorata Japanese Laurel 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 Marmorata Japanese Laurel deer resistant?

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

When does Marmorata Japanese Laurel bloom?

Marmorata Japanese Laurel 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 Marmorata Japanese Laurel need full sun?

Marmorata Japanese Laurel does best in part shade.

Is Marmorata Japanese Laurel drought tolerant?

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