About
Ligustrum lucidum, the Chinese privet, is a small, evergreen tree with broadly oval, glossy leaves to 15 cm long and small, creamy-white flowers in panicles to 15 cm long in summer and early autumn. A handsome and reliable evergreen tree for a sheltered, sunny or partly shaded garden.
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, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, East-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeTrees
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height8-12 metres
Spreadwider than 8 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesSpecimen planting, large borders, parkland settings.
Native toS & E China
FragranceFlower
ToxicityHarmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling 10108,ligustrum-vulgare,Ligustrum vulgare,wild privet,Ligustrum vulgare
Care notes
CultivationGrow in any well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade
PruningPruning group 1 in summer
PropagationPropagate by taking semi-hardwood cuttings in summer or hardwood cuttings in winter
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids, scale insects, leaf miners and thrips
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus