shrub

Tatsumaki Japanese Laurel

Aucuba japonica 'Tatsumaki'

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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

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Many years

Native To

Japan

Toxicity

Toxic to pets and humans if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Aucuba japonica 'Tatsumaki' is a compact, evergreen shrub known for its upright, narrow growth habit and glossy, solid dark green foliage. It produces small, purplish flowers in early spring. This all-green male cultivar is distinguished by its dense, columnar form and slightly twisted leaves, making it an excellent structural plant for shaded garden areas. It can serve as a pollinator for female Aucuba varieties.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides year-round greenery and glossy foliage, enhancing shaded areas.

Toxic to pets and children, so good for safe boundaries.

Supports local bird populations with shelter and cover.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck young plants into well-drained, shaded spots.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy.
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring.
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape.
Mulch around base to retain moisture.
Protect from harsh winter winds for best results.

Pro Tip

Plant in partial shade with moist, well-drained soil for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently during dry periods 💧
Prune lightly to shape after flowering ✂️
Mulch to conserve soil moisture 🌱

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Do not expose to full sun, which can scorch leaves
Avoid heavy pruning in late summer

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

Shaded garden borderEvergreen hedge with glossy foliage

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Japanese maples Heucheras

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Tatsumaki Japanese Laurel questions

What zones can Tatsumaki Japanese Laurel grow in?

Tatsumaki 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 Tatsumaki Japanese Laurel deer resistant?

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

When does Tatsumaki Japanese Laurel bloom?

Tatsumaki 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 Tatsumaki Japanese Laurel need full sun?

Tatsumaki Japanese Laurel does best in part shade.

Is Tatsumaki Japanese Laurel drought tolerant?

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