Japanese Laurel
Aucuba japonica · Garryaceae (Silk Tassel family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, evergreen
Shape
Lanceolate to ovate-elliptical with an acuminate tip
Margin
Coarsely serrate or dentate, particularly along the upper half of the blade
Arrangement
Opposite
Venation
Pinnate with a prominent, raised midrib and prominent secondary veins
Key Features
Opposite, leathery, glossy evergreen leaves with coarsely toothed margins and distinct pinnate venation; thick green stems
Description
Aucuba japonica is a hardy, dense, evergreen shrub known for its lush, glossy foliage and ability to thrive in deep shade where many other plants fail. It features thick stems, opposite leaves, inconspicuous small purplish-brown flowers, and bright red berries on female plants when pollinated.
Habitat
Thrives in partial to full shade under forest canopies, preferring moist, well-draining, humus-rich soils, though highly tolerant of urban pollution and drought once established
Native Range
Native to damp woodlands, valleys, and thickets in China, Japan, and the Himalayas; widely cultivated as an ornamental shrub in temperate regions worldwide