Chinese Privet

Chinese Privet, Ligustrum villosum

Chinese privet is an evergreen shrub with spreading branches. The leaves are opposite, the flowers white and fragrant, and the berries bluish black and persistent throughout winter. While the seeds are dispersed by birds, Chinese privet also reproduces by root suckers. Unfortunately, this ornamental shrub that was introduced in 1852 is very invasive in much of the southern United States. As with other invasive species, Chinese privet can tolerate many conditions and poses the threat of forming dense thickets and creating monocultures. In addition to making conditions unsuitable for native seedlings, compounds in the leaves prevent many native herbivorous species from feeding on the plant. As Chinese privet is considered one of the most invasive plants for many different states, it is highly discouraged for planting. Current control of Chinese privet includes physical removal of planets, especially before seeding, and a few different herbicidal methods including foliar spraying, cut stump applications, and basal bark applications.