Acuba japonica

 

  Japanese Acuba

  Family: Cornaceae

  Origin: Eastern Asia, including Japan

Hardiness: Hardy to 0 degrees; USDA Zones 7, 8, 9 and 10
Growth: Moderate rate of growth to 10 feet
Form: Upright canes spreading to 7 feet
Leaves: Oval, glossy, toothed, 5 to 7 inches, dark green
Flowers: Inconspicuous; need male & female plants to produce fruit
Fruit or Seeds: One inch red berries (sometimes yellow) in fall
Exposure: Shade or part shade; marginal leaf burn occurs in sun
Water: At least twice a month until well established
Soil: Prefers loam or amended soil
Fertilizer: NPK in spring or fall
Prune: Head back for compactness
Problems: Scale, mealybugs, aphids; spider mites; snails and slugs

Easy care, large leafed plant for shady areas. Green and variegated forms (yellow or white markings) are available. Wash dust off the leaves to keep the plant clean and discourage mites. Check for pests.

© 1997 by Jim Clatfelter.         Go to Garden California Home Page

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