shrub

Mr. Gold Strike Spotted Laurel

Aucuba japonica 'Mr Gold Strike'

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

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Long-lived evergreen shrub

Native To

Japan, China, Korea

Toxicity

All parts are mildly toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Aucuba japonica is a dense, rounded, evergreen shrub known for its large, leathery, glossy leaves. It is exceptionally tolerant of shade and a variety of growing conditions. 'Mr. Gold Strike' is a male cultivar prized for its dramatic foliage; the dark green leaves are heavily speckled and splashed with bright golden-yellow. It serves as an excellent pollinator for female Aucuba varieties.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Its bold, gold-splashed evergreen foliage provides year-round color and texture, making it a standout in shade gardens where few other plants offer such vibrancy.

Excellent for use as an informal hedge or screen in shady areas. Its dense growth habit helps suppress weeds once established.

Provides dense cover and shelter for birds and small wildlife. As a male plant, its flowers offer pollen for early-season pollinators.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a location with partial to full shade and well-drained soil.
Amend heavy clay or poor soils with compost before planting.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball.
Position the plant so the top of the root ball is level with the soil.
Backfill the hole, gently firming the soil around the roots.
Water thoroughly after planting and mulch to conserve moisture.

Pro Tip

Provide consistent moisture and protection from hot afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch and maintain the best variegation.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Plant in a sheltered location to protect from harsh winter winds.
Water regularly during dry spells, especially the first year.
Wipe leaves occasionally to remove dust and enhance glossiness.

Don't

Do not plant in waterlogged soil, as this can cause root rot.
Avoid direct, hot afternoon sun which will scorch the leaves.
Don't over-fertilize, which can lead to weak, leggy growth.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Bright accent for deep shade gardensReliable evergreen foundation plantingLush container specimen for patios

Companion Plants

Hosta Ferns (Athyrium) Helleborus Rhododendron Mahonia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Mr. Gold Strike Spotted Laurel questions

What zones can Mr. Gold Strike Spotted Laurel grow in?

Mr. Gold Strike Spotted 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 Mr. Gold Strike Spotted Laurel deer resistant?

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

When does Mr. Gold Strike Spotted Laurel bloom?

Mr. Gold Strike Spotted Laurel typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Mr. Gold Strike Spotted Laurel need full sun?

Mr. Gold Strike Spotted Laurel does best in part shade.

Is Mr. Gold Strike Spotted Laurel drought tolerant?

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