Aucuba blackening

Aucuba (spotted laurel) is recommended for its robustness and ability to grow in dry, shaded sites. However, despite this reputation, Aucuba can become stressed such as when its roots become waterlogged during cold, wet winters, for example, and as a result the leaves and shoot tips turn black.

Save to My scrapbook
Aucuba blackening. Credit: RHS/Tim Sandall.
Aucuba blackening. Credit: RHS/Tim Sandall.

Quick facts

Common name: Aucuba blackening
Plants affected: All cultivars of Aucuba
Main causes: Waterlogging during cold, wet winter 
Timing: Winter

Symptoms

The leaves (and shoot tips) develop moist blackened areas. There is no evidence that a pest or disease causes this and there is no need to apply pesticides.

Cause

The blackening of the leaves is usually caused by root stress due to excess moisture levels in the soil during cold, wet winters. Other forms of stress, including root diseases (mainly phytophthora root rots) might also be involved.

Control

There are no chemicals to control (or prevent) Aucuba blackening. If it happens in your garden do the following:

  • On established plants remove any affected foliage and shoots
  • Encourage strong regrowth by applying a balanced general fertiliser such as growmore around the base of the plant in early spring

To prevent Aucuba blackening, try the following:

  • Avoid planting Aucuba in areas prone to waterlogging
  • Improve texture and drainage of heavy clay soils prior to planting by incorporating bulky organic matter such as composted bark, garden compost or well rotted farmyard manure to a larger area
  • In wet districts planting on low, wide mounds, about 20cm (8in) high can help
  • Mulching with bulky organic matter can be also beneficial. Keep the base of the plant free from mulch

Gardeners' calendar

Find out what to do this month with our gardeners' calendar

Advice from the RHS

Get involved

The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.