About
An evergreen shrub or small tree, to 3m tall, with green, curled leaves that are edged in creamy-yellow and may be flushed pink when young. Panicles of small white flowers, borne in late summer, may be followed by black berries.
About the genus
Ligustrum can be decidous or evergreen shrubs or small trees, with simple, entire leaves and panicles of small, often unpleasantly scented white flowers in spring or summer, followed by black or deep purple berries
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, East-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs, Trees
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden
FragranceFlower
ToxicityHarmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets (dogs): Harmful if eaten. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
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