Plant : spotted laurel

Care Instructions:

Aucuba Japonica ‘Mr. Goldstrike’, commonly known as Spotted Laurel, is a stunning evergreen shrub recognized for its bright, glossy green leaves heavily speckled with golden-yellow spots. This plant is highly valued for its ability to brighten shaded areas in the garden, making it a popular choice for borders, hedges, and containers. ‘Mr. Goldstrike’ is resilient and easy to care for, thriving in various light conditions and adding year-round interest to any landscape.

Light

‘Mr. Goldstrike’ Spotted Laurel thrives in partial to full shade. It performs exceptionally well in low-light conditions, making it ideal for shaded garden beds or indoor spaces where light is limited. Avoid direct sunlight, which can cause leaf burn.

Water

Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant regularly, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Once established, it can tolerate short periods of drought but prefers consistent moisture for optimal growth.

Soil

This Aucuba prefers well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil. A mix of garden soil and organic matter, such as compost or leaf mold, is ideal to provide nutrients and retain moisture.

Temperature

The ideal temperature range for ‘Mr. Goldstrike’ is between 50°F and 75°F (10°C to 24°C). It is hardy and can tolerate colder temperatures, making it suitable for outdoor planting in various climates. However, protect it from severe frost.

Humidity

Spotted Laurel is adaptable to a range of humidity levels but prefers moderate humidity. It can tolerate both dry and humid conditions, making it easy to care for in most environments.

Fertilizer

Feed your ‘Mr. Goldstrike’ with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring. Fertilizing once a year is generally sufficient to promote healthy growth and vibrant foliage. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to leaf burn.

Best Placement Ideas

• Shaded Garden Beds: Ideal for brightening up shaded areas of the garden with its striking variegated foliage.
• Hedges: Suitable for use as a hedge or privacy screen in shaded spots.
• Containers: Perfect for container gardening on patios, balconies, or as a houseplant where light is limited.

Common Issues

Pests: ‘Mr. Goldstrike’ is relatively pest-resistant but can occasionally attract scale insects or aphids. Regularly inspect the plant and treat any infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Diseases: Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot. Ensure the soil is well-draining and avoid excessive watering.

Things to Watch Out For

Monitor for signs of leaf yellowing or browning, which may indicate issues with watering or soil conditions. Adjust care practices as needed to keep the plant healthy and vibrant.

Propagation Tips

Propagation Method: ‘Mr. Goldstrike’ can be easily propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings. Take a cutting from a healthy plant, dip it in rooting hormone, and plant it in moist, well-draining soil.

Best Time to Propagate: The best time to propagate is in late summer or early autumn when the plant is actively growing.

Maintenance Tips

Pruning: Prune lightly to maintain the desired shape and remove any damaged or dead branches. Pruning is best done in early spring before new growth begins.

Repotting: If growing in a container, repot every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and provide more space for root growth. Use a well-draining potting mix and a container with adequate drainage holes.