Aucuba japonica 'Golden King'

Spotted Laurel

Aucuba japonica 'Golden King' is a striking evergreen shrub known for its large glossy leaves splashed with bright golden yellow markings. The colourful foliage brings year round interest and brightens shaded areas of New Zealand gardens. This hardy shrub is valued for its ability to thrive in difficult spots where many plants struggle. Aucuba japonica 'Golden King' is easy to grow and provides dependable structure and colour in borders hedging and sheltered garden spaces.

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Suited to regions:	All regions
Plant type:	Shrubs
Height:	2.00 m
Spread:	2.00 m
Flowering time:	Spring
Tolerances:	Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy, Shade
Garden uses:	Hedging, Living areas, Parks, Pool areas, Specimen
Garden styles:	Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Formal, Frontyard, Modern
Easy to grow?	Yes
Maintenance requirements	Low
Growth rate	Medium
Also known as	Spotted Laurel
Sku	10669

How to grow Aucuba japonica 'Golden King' in NZ

Aucuba japonica 'Golden King' grows best in partial shade or full shade with fertile well drained soil. Choose a sheltered position protected from strong winds and harsh afternoon sun. Plant during spring or autumn so the roots establish quickly. Water regularly while the plant settles into the garden then only during extended dry periods. In most parts of New Zealand Aucuba japonica 'Golden King' adapts well and performs reliably in shaded areas.

Aucuba japonica 'Golden King' care tips

Aucuba japonica 'Golden King' is very low maintenance once established. Water during prolonged dry weather but avoid overly wet soil as good drainage is important. Light pruning in spring helps maintain a tidy shape and encourages fresh foliage growth. Applying a general garden fertiliser in spring will support healthy development. Because it tolerates shade and urban conditions well Aucuba japonica 'Golden King' is an excellent plant for easy care gardens.

Aucuba japonica 'Golden King' size, spacing, and growth rate

Aucuba japonica 'Golden King' typically grows about 2 to 3 metres tall and around 1.5 to 2 metres wide when mature. It has a moderate growth rate and gradually forms a dense upright shrub. For the best results space plants about 1.5 to 2 metres apart so they have room to develop fully. With good soil and shelter Aucuba japonica 'Golden King' establishes steadily and provides strong evergreen structure.

Landscaping uses for Aucuba japonica 'Golden King'

Aucuba japonica 'Golden King' is ideal for shaded borders woodland gardens and sheltered foundation plantings. The bold golden foliage brightens darker garden areas and contrasts beautifully with ferns hostas and other shade loving plants. This shrub also works well as an informal hedge or screening plant. Aucuba japonica 'Golden King' is particularly useful where dependable evergreen foliage is needed in challenging shady spaces.

Why buy Aucuba japonica 'Golden King' from The Plant Company

The Plant Company supplies premium Aucuba japonica 'Golden King' plants that are grown to thrive in New Zealand conditions. Each plant is carefully raised to ensure strong healthy growth once planted in the garden. As NZ’s most trusted plant nursery The Plant Company provides expert advice high quality plants and fast nationwide delivery. Purchasing Aucuba japonica 'Golden King' from The Plant Company means buying with confidence and receiving a plant you can trust.

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