Japanese Privet

Ligustrum japonicum (Oleaceae) is a fast-growing evergreen shrub or small tree native to Japan and Korea. It reaches 6 to 12 feet tall and 4 to 6 feet wide, with dense, upright growth and glossy, dark green, leathery leaves (4 to 10 cm long). Fragrant white flowers appear in terminal clusters from May to June, followed by small black drupes (6 mm) that may persist through winter.

Japanese privet adapts to a range of conditions but performs best in part shade, which maintains the best leaf color. It has low water needs and moderate drought tolerance once established. The species tolerates heavy pruning and can be trained as a small standard tree. Cultivars include 'Silver Star' (variegated foliage) and 'Texanum' (shorter, denser). Documented problems include anthracnose, leaf spot, lilac leafminer, and thrips. All parts are mildly toxic. The species has naturalized and is considered invasive in the southeastern United States and California. Hardy in Zones 7a to 8b.