Ligustrum ovalifolium 'Aureum' (v)
golden privet
A dense, large evergreen shrub of erect habit with oval, rich yellow leaves sometimes marked green in the centre. Flowers small, dull white, in small panicles. Fruit a small glossy black berry
Size
Ultimate height
2.5–4 metresTime to ultimate height
10–20 yearsUltimate spread
2.5–4 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green Yellow | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | White | Green Yellow | ||
| Autumn | Green Yellow | Black | ||
| Winter | Green Yellow |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
West–facing or East–facing or South–facing or North–facing
Exposure
Exposed or ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Oleaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- Potentially harmful
- Harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
- Genus
Ligustrum can be decidous or evergreen shrubs or small trees, with simple, entire leaves and panicles of small, often unpleasantly scented white flowers in spring or summer, followed by black or deep purple berries
- Name status
Accepted
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in any well-drained, or moist but well-drained soil in sun or partial shade
Propagation
Propagate by seed, semi-hardwood and hardwood cuttings
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Low Maintenance
- Hedging and screens
Pruning
Pests
Diseases
May be susceptible to honey fungus
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.