LIGUSTRUM JAPONICUM

Botanical Name: Ligustrum japonicum
Common Names: Japanese Privet, Wax-leaf Privet
Mature Size: 6–12 feet (1.8–3.6 meters) in height, 4–6 feet (1.2–1.8 meters) in spread (can grow taller if trained as a tree)
Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Soil Requirements: Well-drained soils; tolerates clay, loam, and sandy substrates
Water Needs: Moderate; drought-tolerant once established
Foliage: Thick, glossy, dark green evergreen leaves with a leathery texture
Flowers: Clusters of small, fragrant white flowers in late spring to early summer
Growth Rate: Fast

Uses:

Ornamental Plant: Ligustrum japonicum is valued for its dense foliage and adaptability, making it a popular choice for hedges, privacy screens, and formal garden designs.

Hedges and Topiary: Its fast growth and tolerance to pruning make it ideal for shaped hedges and topiary forms in residential and commercial landscapes.

Urban Landscaping: Highly adaptable to pollution, drought, and a variety of soils, it performs well in city and suburban environments.

Benefits:

Drought and Heat Tolerance: Once established, it thrives with moderate watering and endures hot, dry conditions.

Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care beyond occasional pruning; resistant to many common pests and diseases.

Year-Round Structure: Evergreen foliage provides year-round privacy, structure, and color to the landscape.

Wildlife Value: Its flowers attract bees and butterflies, while its small fruits feed birds in the fall.

Ligustrum japonicum is a durable, fast-growing, and highly versatile evergreen plant that brings structure, greenery, and practical function to a wide range of garden styles. Whether used as a formal hedge, standalone specimen, or privacy screen, its resilience and aesthetic value make it a reliable choice for Mediterranean and temperate landscapes.