How to prune aucuba japonica crotonifolia

Late winter to early spring (March to May). Use sharp hand pruners to cut stems back to the next healthy growth node. For an overgrown specimen, cut hard to 60 cm from the ground in May when the plant is growing vigorously. Tip-pinch young plants to promote bushy growth.

Annually (lightly) or every few years (hard rejuvenation). Aucuba japonica 'Crotonifolia' benefits from pruning to maintain its attractive shape and control size. It tolerates cutting well. Prune in late winter to early spring before new growth begins, or in May if a hard rejuvenation cut is needed. Avoid hedge trimmers — they shred the large, decorative variegated leaves.

Use sharp hand pruners to cut stems back to the next healthy growth node. For an overgrown specimen, cut hard to 60 cm from the ground in May when the plant is growing vigorously. Tip-pinch young plants to promote bushy growth.