Plant Profile: Ligustrum lucidum

Glossy Privet is a sprawling, somewhat leggy shrub or small tree that can reach heights of up to 50 feet. Known for its drought resistance, it serves as an excellent privacy screen and can withstand heavy pruning. This plant thrives in dry environments and alkaline soils, although it is not as resilient to cold as Ligustrum japonicum. It typically flowers from late spring to early summer, blooming 2-3 weeks later than its counterpart. The flowers emit a strong fragrance that may trigger asthma in sensitive individuals. In California and Florida, it is regarded as invasive, often becoming weedy in disturbed areas near buildings and naturalizing in wetter locations. In landscaping, it is best used as an irregularly spreading ornamental shrub, adaptable to various soil types, provided they are not consistently saturated. However, it is important to note that this plant can attract pests and produces toxic berries.

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