Photo: TeunSpaans, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Shrub
Spotted laurel: when and how to prune
Aucuba japonica
Spotted laurel is best pruned in April–May.
| Pruning months | April–May |
|---|---|
| Nesting season (15 March–15 August) | Take care in April–May |
| Flowering | March–April |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
| Poisonous to people and pets | Yes, take care with children and pets |
Spotted laurel: when to prune it?
In April–May.
Spotted laurel: how to prune it?
- Cut overlong branches back with secateurs to just above a leaf: leaves cut through with hedge shears turn brown at the edges.
- A shrub that has grown too big or bare can be cut back hard; it sprouts again from old wood.
- Prune female plants sparingly: every branch you remove will bear no more berries.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: April–May.
- Grows best when left alone. Only remove dead, diseased or awkward branches.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Pruning in April–May can fall in the nesting season (15 March–15 August). Check carefully for nesting birds first: disturbing an active nest is against the law.
- Prunings can go on a dead hedge or brash pile in a corner of the garden: shelter for hedgehogs, wrens and insects.
Common mistakes
- Clipping without first checking for nesting birds.
- Pruning too much: it grows best when left alone.
- Leaving a stub or sawing flush with the trunk: cut just outside the branch collar.
Caution: April–May falls in the nesting season: check for nesting birds in the shrub before you prune. Spotted laurel is poisonous: wear gloves and keep clippings away from children, pets and livestock.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Similar to: Difference from cherry laurel · Difference from Japanese aralia
Plant profile: Spotted laurel · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.