AUCUBA JAPONICA GOLDEN KING

• Foliage: The leaves are large, glossy, deep green in color with irregular golden or yellow spots, which give the plant a very attractive appearance. The edges of the leaves are slightly toothed, and their texture is leathery.
• Dimension: It is a shrub that can reach heights of up to 2-3 meters, with a similar width. Growth is relatively slow, but the plant becomes very dense and well branched.
• Flowers and fruits: The flowers are small, reddish-purple in color, and usually appear in late spring. Although the flowers are not very spectacular, they contribute to the overall beauty of the plant. After pollination, small, bright red fruits develop, which persist on the plant throughout the winter.
• Exposure and soil: Aucuba japonica ‘Golden King’ prefers semi-shade or full shade exposure, being one of the few plants that tolerates deep shade well. Too much sun can lead to leaf burn. It is tolerant of most soil types, but prefers well-drained, slightly acidic or neutral soil.
• Resistance: This plant is resistant to urban pollution and can tolerate wind and salts well, making it suitable for urban or coastal gardens. It is also relatively frost-resistant, but may need extra protection in very harsh winters.
• Care: It requires a little care once established. It is good to water it regularly in the first year after planting and cut it slightly to maintain its desired shape. Organic mulch applied in spring helps to maintain soil moisture and protect the roots.

Aucuba japonica ‘Golden King’ is prized in gardens for its decorative foliage, and is often used as a border plant, hedge, or as a solitary plant in shadier places.