Ligustrum japonicum

Ligustrum japonicum, more commonly known as Wax-leaf privet, is an evergreen perennial shrub or tree native to central and southern Japan and Korea.  Desired commonly for its application as a privacy hedge, the Wax-leaf privet performs the role well with its fast growth-rate, dense evergreen foliage, and heights of up to 20 ft / 6 m.  Alternatively, the Wax-leaf privet can be shaped into a landscape focal point of topiary elegance.  Lustrous, dark-green, lance-shaped leaves grow in an opposite pattern along the branches of the Wax-leaf privet.  Summer brings panicles of creamy white blooms that possess a pungent odor.  Another ornamental quality of the Wax-leaf privet is the blueish-black berries that adorn the shrub throughout winter.  All parts of the Wax-leaf privet are toxic, including the berries.  

Though it prefers an abundantly sunny spot, the Wax-leaf privet will grow healthily in most light conditions.  Regular watering weekly is necessary to help establish a newly planted Wax-leaf privet, but once established, it should only need minimal watering, except during extended dry spells.  Any well-draining soil is suitable for the Wax-leaf privet, so add some peat moss to your garden soil when planting.  Fertilize in the early spring when the plant is still growing, but once established, the Wax-leaf privet should only be fertilized every three years.  Do the majority of the pruning in late winter or early spring while the plant is dormant, and try to cut dead branches as close to flush with the trunk as possible.  Learn more in the Plant Story community!

3-6 hours of sun per day, with protection from intense mid-day sun

Water moderately, allowing the top 3cm to dry out between watering.

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Ligustrum Japonicum

Ligustrum japonicum

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