Aucuba japonica – A handsome evergreen foliar shrub with glossy leaves that makes a good informal hedge. This dioecious species (separate male and female plants) grows 6-7′ tall on average. Common cultivars include ‘Gold Dust’ (yellow flecked foliage), ‘Picturata’ (central gold blotch), ‘Crotonifolia’ (yellow speckles) and ‘Serratifolia’ (green serrated leaf). Zone 6 hardy.
Kerria japonica ‘Pleniflora’ – A versatile deciduous shrub that blooms well in partial shade or full sun. The double yellow pompom flowers appear May to June and are nicely contrasted by the bright green stems. This relatively fast-growing cultivar reaches heights of 6′ to 8′ tall. The species or single-flowered form can be difficult to find now. Zone 5 hardy.
Fatsia japonica – Japanese Aralia has large tropical-looking leaves that are quite thick and glossy. This vigorous evergreen species (6′ to 10′ tall) bears umbels of spherical white blooms and is best used near staircases or shady fence corners, where height is required. It can be grown in containers but may require some protection during cold weather spells. Variegated forms are available. Zone 8 hardy.
Skimmia japonica – A handsome group of fragrant evergreen shrubs (bloom April-May) that look great in foundation beds or in planters. Heights range from 2′ to 4′ (depending on variety) and both male and female cultivars are available, including; ‘Rubella’ (male, red buds), ‘Magic Marlot’ (male, variegated), subsp. reevesiana (self-fertile female, red berries), ‘Fragrant Cloud’ (male, pictured) and ‘Rubinetta’ (male, red buds). Zone 7 hardy.
Sarcococca hookeriana var. humilis – A small (18″ tall) clump-forming evergreen shrub with sweetly fragrant winter blooms (late Dec. – February) that works well as a tall groundcover or container specimen. Two other common but taller species of Christmas Box include Sarcococca ruscifolia (3′ tall) and confusa (5-6′ tall) – both of which also have fragrant flowers. Zone 6 hardy.
Mike's Garden Top 5 Plants 