Ligustrum sinense Lour.

Taxonomic Identity and Growth Form

Ligustrum sinense Lour. is a deciduous shrub that reaches a height of 2–7 m (6.5–23 ft), and has densely hairy shoots.

Leaf Characteristics

Its leaves are arranged oppositely; they are typically 2–7 cm (0.7–2.7 in) long and 1–3 cm (0.3–1.1 in) broad, rarely grow larger, have smooth entire margins, and grow from 2–8 mm (0.07–0.31 in) long petioles.

Flower Morphology

The flowers are white, with a four-lobed corolla that measures 3.5–5.5 mm (0.1–0.2 in) in length.

Fruit Traits

The fruit is subglobose, with a diameter of 5–8 mm (0.1–0.3 in), and is considered poisonous.

Cultivation Uses

Ligustrum sinense is cultivated as an ornamental plant and for use as hedges.

Known Cultivars

Several cultivars have been selected for cultivation: these include the highly floriferous 'Multiflorum', the variegated cultivar 'Variegatum', and the dwarf cultivar 'Wimbei', which grows to 0.5 m tall and only produces leaves up to 6 mm long.

Introduction to North America

This species was introduced to North America specifically for use in hedges and landscaping.

Invasive Status in U.S.

It has since escaped from cultivation, and is now listed as an invasive plant in the southeastern states of the U.S.

Invasion Range and Impacts

It is estimated that Chinese privet, the common name of this species, currently occupies over one million hectares of land across 12 states ranging from Virginia to Florida and west to Texas, and its spread causes detrimental effects to local biodiversity and forest health.