About
Ligustrum delavayanum, the Delavay privet, is a compact, evergreen shrub with ovate, dark-green leaves and short panicles of small, white flowers in early summer, followed by blue-black berries. A rewarding and ornamental privet for a sunny or partly shaded, sheltered garden or as a formal hedge.
About the genus
Ligustrum, the privets, are deciduous or evergreen shrubs and small trees with simple, entire leaves and panicles of small, often pungently scented, white flowers in spring or summer, followed by black or deep-purple berries. Popular hedging and garden shrubs.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden
Native toW China
ToxicityHarmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Care notes
CultivationGrow in any well-drained, or moist but well-drained soil in sun or partial shade
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by seed, semi-hardwood and hardwood cuttings
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids, leaf-mining moths and thrips
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus