Aucuba is another plant that I remember growing up at my grandmothers house. The most useful aspect I've noticed with Aucuba is that it can survive and thrive in the most shady environment, for example, under a deck. The newer yellow Aucuba's are nice to mix with the older greener ones.
Aucuba Japonica Picturata
Aucuba Japonica 'Picturata'
Aucuba japonica 'Picturata' is a slow grower that boasts brilliant glossy dark green leaves with yellow gold centers. This shrub thrives in partial to full shade. If a male pollinator is nearby, 'Picurata' might produce red berries! The glossy evergreen foliage of this aucuba will bring beauty to the backdrop any woodland garden or large border. A sturdy option to use as a screen, or makes an eye-catching centerpiece in a shady container when under planted with coleus or purple heuchera.