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Aucuba japonica 'Gold Dust' is an evergreen shrub known for its striking, glossy green leaves speckled with bright gold. This shade-loving plant adds vibrant color and texture to garden borders, shaded areas, and containers.
Description:
- Dimensions: Grows to a height of 4-6 feet and spreads about 4-6 feet wide.
- Sun Exposure: Prefers part shade to full shade, thriving in less than 4 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Water Requirements: Requires moderate watering; keep the soil consistently moist but well-drained.
- Hardiness Zones: Hardy in USDA zones 6-10.
- Bloom Time: Produces small purple flowers in spring, followed by red berries on female plants if a male plant is nearby for pollination.
- Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and remove any damaged or dead branches.
How to Plant:
- Location: Choose a spot with part shade to full shade and well-drained soil.
- Soil Preparation: Amend the soil with organic matter to improve drainage and fertility, particularly in heavier soils.
- Planting: Dig a hole the same depth as the root ball and twice as wide. Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.
- Spacing: Space plants 3-6 feet apart, depending on how dense you want the planting.
- Watering: Water thoroughly after planting and maintain even moisture, especially during the establishment period.
Fun Fact: Aucuba japonica 'Gold Dust' is often referred to as the "Gold Dust Plant" because of its unique, gold-speckled leaves. It is one of the few plants that thrive in deep shade, making it an excellent choice for those tricky low-light areas in the garden.