Although it is poisonous, the aukube is popular as an ornamental plant. Plant lovers find their different-looking leaves hard to resist - but can they be enjoyed for a long time or will they die when there is frost?
Is the Aukube hardy?
Aukube's frost tolerance depends on the species and variety. In cooler temperatures it should be placed in a cool, bright room (0-16°C) to overwinter. In mild winters it can stay outside if it is well protected, e.g. B. with fleece, jute or bubble wrap around the pot.
Frost tolerance depends on the species and variety
Aukube's frost tolerance varies depending on the species and variety. While some Aukubs would rather run away at the first sub-zero temperatures, others are robust and resilient. Therefore, find out about winter hardiness before buying!
Put in for wintering
Do you live in a cool region? Then you should put the Aukube inside in winter. Young plants, for example freshly propagated aucubes (cuttings), should also be put in in October.
This is important for indoor wintering:
- select a cool room: 0 to 16 °C
- ideal for wintering is 5 to 8 °C
- Room should be sufficiently bright (evergreen foliage needs light)
- the warmer, the more light is required
- don’t forget to water
- check regularly for pest infestation
Stay outside? Not without protection
If there is no way to overwinter the Aukube indoors, you can also overwinter outside. Good protection from excessive frost is required there. In general, you should only use this method if you live in an area with mild winters.
On the one hand, you should wrap the pot/pot with fleece (€34.00 on Amazon), jute or bubble wrap. This protects the roots and prevents them from freezing. This type of winter protection works down to -15 °C. Provided that the Aukube is in a well-protected place such as on the wall of the house or on the balcony. However, you should not challenge their temperature minimum.
What else is important
Continue to observe the following tips:
- ideal wintering place: cold house
- protect from moisture
- Protect leaves from winter sun
- do not fertilize
- water even in winter
- after overwintering is the optimal time for repotting and propagating
- cut off dead, frozen parts in spring
Tip
Aukube should only be planted in mild and protected locations. To protect your roots from frost, it is advisable to cover the root area with brushwood or compost.
