Ligustrum

Ligustrum - Growing Privet Trees And Shrubs in NZ

Not all Privets are invasive in NZ and The Plant Company only offers for sale varieties that are non-invasive. In fact, Ligustrum ‘Rotundifolium’ is a very popular plant with NZ gardeners and landscapers alike, as is Ligustrum is ‘Lemon, Lime, and Clippers’. However, species such as Ligustrum sinense (Chinese Privet) and Ligustrum lucidum (Tree Privet) are considered invasive and generally neither propagated nor sold in NZ any longer.

Ligustrum ‘Rotundifolium’

Ligustrum Rotundifolium, commonly known as the Japanese privet, is a slow-growing shrub with glossy, rounded leaves with a gentle ‘wave’. The foliage is complemented with panicles of fragrant white flowers in late spring. Unlike its fast-growing cousins, it reaches a mere 1.5 m tall, making it ideal for smaller gardens or patio pots. Landscape designers often include this plant in pool gardens and modern gardens to take advantage of the architectural aesthetics and the contrasts this plant offers. The wavy leaves and rounded nature of the plant has an architectural nature. The dark green leaves afford a great contrast against a white wall or pavers. The white flowers afford a further contrast later on. The slow-growing nature of this plant creates a further advantage of being low-maintenance.

Ligustrum ‘Lemon Lime and Clippers

Ligustrum 'Lemon Lime and Clippers' is a compact shrub named for its striking foliage. Unlike its plain green cousins, this variety boasts a dazzling kaleidoscope of lemon and lime shades. Growing to 2 m tall and 1.5 m wide, it's perfect for low hedges and screening. Its dense and wavy foliage respond well to trimming, allowing you to create formal shapes or keep it neat and bushy.

Sun-loving and drought-tolerant, 'Lemon Lime and Clippers' adapts well to most soils. It even tolerates frost and coastal conditions, making it a versatile choice for diverse gardens. While it attracts butterflies and beneficial insects, remember all parts are toxic if ingested.

Is It Okay To Grow A Privet Hedge In NZ?

Growing a privet hedge in New Zealand is a complex issue with legal and environmental considerations. While they were once popular hedging plants, privet species, particularly tree privet (Ligustrum lucidum) and Chinese privet (Ligustrum sinense), are now classified as National Pest Plant Accord species due to their invasive nature. This means:

• Planting, propagating, distributing, or selling tree privet is prohibited throughout New Zealand.
• In some regions, like Auckland, planting these privet species is illegal.
• You are required to control and destroy any existing tree privet on your property if directed by an authorized person.

These Privet species are readily spread through seeds and root suckers. As they invade areas, they displace native vegetation and disrupt ecosystems. Adding to that, the berries and leaves are poisonous to humans and animals and the flowers can trigger hayfever and asthma symptoms.

All this said, you can create a privet hedge with Ligustrum ‘Lemon Lime and Clippers’. This is a non-invasive variety and is great for creating a hedge up to 2 m tall. The lemon and lime coloured foliage creates a beautiful and highly aesthetic hedge.

Alternatives To Privet Hedges

Fortunately, there are many beautiful alternatives to privet hedges that are well-suited to the New Zealand climate and won't harm the environment. Here are a few examples:

• Coprosma: These come in various sizes and foliage colors, offering year-round interest.
• Mahoe: A fast-growing native with glossy green leaves and white flowers.
• Griselinia littoralis: A dense, coastal tolerant shrub with attractive bronze new growth.
• Corokia: A quick-growing, hardy shrub that is well suited to tough locations.
• Ficus ‘Tuffy’: A popular hedging plant with lush, mid-green foliage. Well suited to creating an elegant hedge.

Remember, it's crucial to choose plants that are suitable for your local environment and won't pose a threat to native ecosystems.

How To Kill Privet in NZ

Growing some varieties of privet, Tree Privet (Ligustrum lucidum) and Chinese Privet (Ligustrum sinense), is illegal in some areas of NZ and getting rid of them as efficiently and effectively as possible is generally the goal. The control methods are based on the size and maturity of the plants:

Small Plants and Seedling Control Options:

• Hand pulling is the easiest method for young plants and seedlings. Ensure you remove all roots to prevent regrowth.
• Weed whacking: Effective for small shoots and can be followed by herbicide application to prevent stump regrowth.

Larger Plants and Trees Control Options:

• Cut the trunk close to the ground and immediately apply gel herbicide to the freshly cut stump. Follow the product instructions and safety precautions carefully.
• Drill holes into the trunk at an angle and inject herbicide directly into the sapwood. This method minimizes herbicide use and is suitable for larger trees.
• Herbicide spraying is suitable for dense thickets or difficult-to-reach areas. Choose a selective herbicide targeting privet and minimize spraying near other plants. Always follow product instructions and wear protective gear. The main product to use here is metsulfuron-methyl which you can purchase from a rural supplies store.

Important notes:

• Some regions may have specific requirements for disposing of privet debris or using herbicides. Contact your regional council for guidance.
• Seek professional help if you're unsure about tackling large or mature privet, consider hiring a qualified arborist or weed control company familiar with local regulations and best practices.

Remember, the goal is to eradicate privet effectively while minimizing environmental harm. Choose the method that best suits your situation and resources, and always prioritise responsible and legal practices. For larger stands, The Plant Company recommends employing a spraying contractor given the nature of chemicals needed and they will provide invaluable experience.

Common questions about growing Privet

1. How fast does Privet grow?

Ligustrum, also known as privet, is a fast-growing evergreen shrub. Most varieties can grow up to 60-80 cm year in ideal growing conditions. Some varieties, such as Japanese privet (Ligustrum japonicum), can grow even faster, reaching heights of up to 10 m in a few years. Smaller varieties, such as Sunshine Ligustrum, can grow up to 30 cm per year.

2. What is the difference between a privet and Ligustrum?

The terms "privet" and "Ligustrum" are often used interchangeably, but there is a slight difference between the two. Privet is the common name for the genus Ligustrum, which contains about 50 species of evergreen and deciduous shrubs and small trees. Privet is native to Europe, Asia, and Africa, and many species have been introduced to other parts of the world.

The term "Ligustrum" is more specific and refers to the genus itself, as well as to individual species within the genus. For example, the common privet (Ligustrum vulgare) is a type of Ligustrum. In general, the terms "privet" and "Ligustrum" can be used interchangeably to refer to any member of the Ligustrum genus. However, for more specific purposes, such as in scientific writing or when discussing a particular species of privet, it is more accurate to use the term "Ligustrum."

3. Where is the best place to plant Ligustrum?

The best place to plant Ligustrum depends on the specific variety you choose and the desired purpose of the planting. Here are a few general tips:

• Sun position: Ligustrum can grow in either full sun or partial shade, but it will produce the best foliage density and flowering in full sun.
• Drainage: Ligustrum does not tolerate poorly drained soil, so it is important to plant it in a well-drained location.
• Wind: Ligustrum can tolerate some wind exposure, but it prefers to be planted in a sheltered location.

4. Ideas for where to plant Privet Some specific ideas for where to plant Privet:

• As a hedge: Ligustrum is a popular choice for hedges because it is fast-growing and easy to maintain. It can be planted in a single row or in a double row for a thicker hedge.
• As a screen: Ligustrum can also be used as a screen to block out unwanted views or to provide privacy. It can be planted in a row or in a clump to create a barrier.
• As a foundation plant: Ligustrum can be planted in a front garden to add interest and street appeal.
• In a mixed planting: Ligustrum can also be planted in a mixed planting with other shrubs and flowers. It is a good choice for adding structure and height to a garden.

5. How big will Ligustrum get?

The mature size of Ligustrum varies depending on the specific variety. Most varieties will grow to be between 2-3 m tall and wide. However, some varieties, such as Japanese privet (Ligustrum japonicum), can grow up to 10 m tall and wide. Other varieties, such as Sunshine Ligustrum, may only grow to be 1-2 m tall and wide. Ligustrum can be pruned to maintain a desired size and shape, but it is important to avoid pruning too heavily, as they may not recover.

6. Can you keep Privet small?

It is possible to keep Privet (Ligustrum sp.) small with regular pruning throughout the growing season. You can use a pair of hand pruners or hedge trimmers, depending on the size of the plant. When pruning, be sure to remove any dead or diseased branches, as well as any branches that are growing out of shape.

You can also prune Ligustrum to create a specific shape, such as a hedge or topiary. For a hedge, simply trim the top and sides of the plant to the desired height and width. For a topiary, you can use your imagination to create any shape you like.

7. What is the lifespan of Privet?

The lifespan of Ligustrum, also known as privet, is typically 20-40 years. However, some varieties can live for much longer, with reports of Ligustrum plants living for over 100 years. The lifespan of Ligustrum is influenced by a number of factors, including the variety of Ligustrum, the growing conditions, and the care that the plant receives.