Glossy Privet
ligustrum lucidum
Also known as: ["Chinese privet","Bigleaf privet","Broadleaf privet"]
Overview
A large evergreen tree or shrub native to China, known for its glossy, dark green leaves and fragrant white flowers followed by small black berries.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Oleaceae |
| Genus: | Ligustrum |
| Botanical Name: | Ligustrum lucidum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden, adaptable to urban environments
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand; can tolerate a range of soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or biannually; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on desired shape and size control.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates some shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; monitor for leaf scorch.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overhead watering.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–85°F (15–29°C); can tolerate mild frosts but thrives in warm conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; avoid fertilizing newly repotted plants; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings (softwood or semi-hardwood); layering is also effective.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone powder or gel recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bags or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open up the canopy; heading cuts to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Shape plant, remove dead/diseased growth, and encourage bushier form; best done after flowering or in late winter/early spring.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; remove crossing branches; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh well-draining soil; ensure proper drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; prune roots if necessary; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches; allow excess water to drain freely; water in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, or wilting; stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may suffer leaf damage or dieback in prolonged freezing temperatures.
Solution: Protect with frost cloth; move indoors in freezing weather; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced vigor in excessive heat; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10) every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicLigustrum lucidum berries are toxic to cats, with glycosides and alkaloids causing gastrointestinal and neurological disturbances. The toxins can lead to severe systemic effects in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe berries of Ligustrum lucidum are toxic to dogs, containing compounds that can cause gastrointestinal upset and, in severe cases, neurological symptoms. The toxins disrupt normal digestive and nervous system functions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicLigustrum lucidum berries contain glycosides and alkaloids that can cause gastrointestinal distress and neurological effects upon ingestion. The toxic compounds interfere with normal cellular processes, leading to systemic symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ligustrum lucidum toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How fast does Ligustrum lucidum grow?
A: It is considered a fast-growing plant, capable of adding several feet in height per year under ideal conditions.
Q: Does Ligustrum lucidum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, its fragrant flowers attract bees, butterflies, and birds, making it a good choice for wildlife gardens.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Oleaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
