The genus Ligustrum is made up of deciduous, semi-evergreen, or evergreen shrubs and trees grown for their attractive leaves and fragrant clusters of small, white flowers. They are divided into about 50 species. Grow privet as hedging, specimens, or as part of a shrub border.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsGlossy leaves and fragrant white flowers. Adaptable to most soils. All plant parts can cause severe discomfort if eaten. Some species are invasive.
CareGrow in full sun or part shade in most any well-drained soil. Plant variegated plants in full sun for best color.
PropagationFrom seed sown in a cold frame in spring or autumn, from semi-ripe cuttings taken in summer, or from hardwood cuttings in winter.
ProblemsAphids, scale insects, Japanese beetles, weevils, mites, thrips, leaf spots, blights, cankers, crown gall, root rot.
