About
A dense, large evergreen shrub of erect habit with oval, rich yellow leaves sometimes marked green in the centre. Flowers small, dull white, in small panicles. Fruit a small glossy black berry.
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, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectWest-facing, East-facing, South-facing, North-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
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, Wildlife gardens
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