Although Aucuba Japonica Variagata is known as Spotted Laurel, it is not a member of the Prunus (Laurel) family. Generally, it does not make a good hedge and is best planted as a specimen plant or as a short hedge, for instance under a window and trimmed. It is a useful shrub in that it is one of a small group of variegated plants that will grow in a north facing aspect or in shade and not lose its colour. Aucuba Japonica Variagata should be planted at 2ft apart or as standalone shrubs and careful preparation of the planting site with planting compost and aftercare are important.