Ligustrum japonicum ‘Variegatum’ (Japanese Privet)

Ligustrum japonicum ‘Variegatum’ (Japanese Privet) is an upright, evergreen shrub boasting glossy evergreen leaves abundantly produced on the upright, spreading branches. Thick and rounded, they are adorned with creamy white edges and blotches. Upright panicles of small, creamy-white flowers appear in late spring to early summer. The fragrant blossoms are considered by many to have an unpleasant aroma. They give way to small, glossy berries which ripen in fall and persist throughout winter. The berries are popular with birds and the dispersed seeds occasionally germinate where they fall, but this is usually not a nuisance. Variegatum is often used as a shrub or hedge. It can also grow into a small tree, its curved multiple trunks and variegated canopy creating an interesting architectural focus.

• Grows up to 8-12 ft. tall (240-360 cm) and 15-25 ft. wide (450-750 cm). This plant will naturalize by self-seeding in optimum growing conditions.
• Performs best in full sun or part shade, in average, dry to medium, well-drained soils. Japanese Privet is not fussy about soils provided they are not soggy or wet. Good drainage is essential.
• Keep an eye out for aphids, leaf-mining moths, thrips, and leaf spot.
• Prune as needed immediately after flowering.
• Propagate by seed, semi-hardwood, and hardwood cuttings.
• All parts may cause severe discomfort if ingested.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.
• Find where ligustrum japonicum species is invasive in the United States.
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