About
A slow-growing, deciduous shrub, to around 1.5m high, with an upright habit and small, oval-shaped dark green leaves to 1cm long. Clusters of small white flowers are sometimes produced in summer, but this cultivar rarely flowers and is predominantly grown for its foliage.
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
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy, Columnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 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 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 well-drained soil in sun or partial shade; will not tolerate waterlogging
PruningPruning group 1; clip hedges twice in summer
PropagationPropagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in summer or hardwood cuttings in winter
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to privet aphid, scale insects, leaf miners and thrips
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to leaf spot, honey fungus, virus diseases, Verticillium wilt and Fusarium wilt