Question

Plant   I was given this plant as a gift and it did not have any information with it.
I would love to know what type of plant this is and who to tend to it. I have only had experience  with Ivies. Thank you for your help. A picture of the plant is attached.

Answer
Hi Chris,

Your gift plant is an Aucuba japonica 'variegata,' more commonly called Gold Dust Plant.

Keep it potbound in its existing pot. If you prefer a more decorative pot, then use one that is large enough for you to set the existing plastic nursery pot inside of it.

Locate your Aucuba on a sunny north or east facing windowsill. It requires bright, but mostly indirect sunlight all day long to maintain healthy growth and its yellow variegation.

Water it thoroughly as soon as the top half-inch of soil feels dry, which will occur once or twice per week.

As it grows taller and the stems become more leggy, don't hesitate to prune back the longer stems. Pruning will not harm the plant, but it will help keep the plant full and compact.

I have written detailed articles on pruning and on repotting that I will email for free to you (or anyone else) who emails a request to me at [email protected]. I have also written an indoor plant care book in a PDF format that I can sell you if you contact me at my email address.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

Visit my website at: A link to HorticulturalHelp.com