California Privet

California Privet (Ligustrum ovalifolium)

California Privet (Ligustrum ovalifolium) is a fast-growing, semi-evergreen shrub prized for its dense foliage and adaptability, making it a staple in hedging and screening applications. With its upright habit, deep green leaves, and tolerance for heavy pruning, this versatile plant provides dependable structure and privacy in a wide range of landscape settings. It�s a reliable performer in both residential and commercial landscapes.

Distinctive Features

This vigorous shrub features glossy, oval-shaped green leaves and produces clusters of small, creamy white flowers in late spring to early summer. Though not typically grown for its flowers, they are pleasantly fragrant and give way to small, dark berries in fall. In mild climates, California Privet retains its foliage year-round, while in colder regions it may be semi-deciduous. It grows quickly to a height of 10 to 15 feet and spreads 6 to 10 feet wide, forming a thick, symmetrical shape.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Adaptable to most soils; prefers well-drained conditions
• Water: Moderate; becomes drought tolerant once established
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�8

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Upright form and dense foliage create strong structure in the landscape
• Privacy Hedge: Forms a fast, effective barrier when planted in rows
• Foundation Planting: Clean growth habit makes it suitable near buildings
• Formal or Informal Hedges: Easily shaped into clipped or natural forms
• Mixed Borders: Adds mass and greenery to layered plantings

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water regularly while establishing; tolerates some dryness once mature
• Pruning: Can be pruned heavily; shape after flowering or in early spring
• Fertilizing: Feed in early spring with a balanced shrub fertilizer
• Mulching: Helps conserve moisture and keep roots cool
• Pest/Disease Resistance: Generally trouble-free with good airflow and care

Why Choose California Privet?

• Fast Growth: Fills in quickly to provide privacy or enclosure
• Year-Round Appeal: Evergreen in warmer climates; holds form through winter
• Highly Adaptable: Tolerates pruning, pollution, and a range of soils
• Versatile Use: Suitable for formal gardens, screens, or casual hedges
• Focal Point: A dependable structural plant for foundation and boundary planting

Ligustrum ovalifolium, commonly known as California Privet, is a tough, fast-growing shrub ideal for creating clean lines, natural screens, or shaped hedges. Its flexibility and vigor make it a trusted choice for landscape designs that demand form, function, and low maintenance.