The Midweek Program

"Aucuba Matata"
Mark Weathington, Director

  • Wednesday, September 17, 2025 – 3:00 pm–4:00 pm

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Aucuba japonica. What a wonderful plant! They bring bold leaves and color to places where other shrubs can't!

For reasons we may never fully understand, our director Mark has a deep and enduring love for aucubas. Like, a lot. But honestly? He might be onto something. In this episode of the Midweek Program, Mark makes his case for this tough, evergreen shrub that’s so much more than the speckled green filler plant you think you know.

A veritable plethora of Aucuba japonica varieties

From wildly varied leaf shapes to dazzling gold-flecked, splashed, and streaked patterns, aucubas offer year-round interest, structure, and charm in even the shadiest corners of the garden. Mark will show off some of his favorite selections, share tips on care and placement, and maybe—just maybe—convince you that these plants deserve a second look.

Joining the Online Presentation

Visit the URL below to join the program: https://jcra.ncsu.edu/midweek/ In case there are any last-minute changes, please check your e-mail for any updates.

Video

Midweek presentations are recorded and posted to the JC Raulston Arboretum's YouTube Channel. Be sure to subscribe to our channel for updates.
Cost
Free.
Registration
Register online at https://jcra.ncsu.edu/midweek/. You will be sent an email with instructions on how to join us online if you register before the program begins. If you register once it's started, you'll be taken directly to the online program.
Location
Online (see instructions above).
Questions
Contact the JCRA Education Team at jcraprograms@ncsu.edu for more information about this program.