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Description
Ligustrum Lucidum Excelsum Superbum, commonly known as the Glossy Privet or simply the Chinese Privet, is a semi-evergreen shrub that belongs to the Oleaceae family. It is an ornamental plant that is widely cultivated for its attractive foliage and fragrant white flowers. This plant is native to China and can grow up to 15-20 feet tall and 10-15 feet wide when fully matured.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Oleaceae |
| Genus | Ligustrum |
Appearance
The Ligustrum Lucidum Excelsum Superbum has glossy, dark green leaves that are ovate to oblong in shape and measure 2-4 inches in length. The leaves are arranged alternately on the stems and have a leathery texture. In the spring, this plant produces fragrant white flowers that are borne in panicles that are 4-6 inches long. The flowers are followed by small, black berries that are about 1/4 inch in diameter. The Glossy Privet has an upright growth habit and can be trained into a small tree or allowed to grow as a shrub.
Care Guide
The Ligustrum Lucidum Excelsum Superbum is a low-maintenance plant that is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: This plant prefers well-draining soil and should be watered regularly during the growing season.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer to promote healthy growth.
- Soil: The Glossy Privet prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a variety of light conditions.
- Hardiness Zones: The Ligustrum Lucidum Excelsum Superbum is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Ligustrum Lucidum Excelsum Superbum is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. The plant can also be affected by root rot and leaf spot, which can be prevented by ensuring that the soil is well-draining and by avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
The Ligustrum Lucidum Excelsum Superbum is native to China and is commonly found in forests, thickets, and along streams. In the United States, this plant is commonly used as an ornamental plant in landscaping and can be found in parks, gardens, and along roadsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Ligustrum Lucidum Excelsum Superbum a deciduous or evergreen plant?
A: The Ligustrum Lucidum Excelsum Superbum is a semi-evergreen plant.Q: Can the Glossy Privet be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Ligustrum Lucidum Excelsum Superbum can be grown in containers.Q: Does the Glossy Privet attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, the plant produces fragrant flowers that attract bees and butterflies.Q: How fast does the Ligustrum Lucidum Excelsum Superbum grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 2-3 feet per year under the right conditions.
Related Plants
- Ligustrum Ovalifolium
- Ligustrum Japonicum
- Ligustrum Vulgare
- Ligustrum Sinense
References
- “Ligustrum lucidum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d144.
- “Ligustrum lucidum.” PlantFiles, Dave’s Garden, https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/948/.
- “Glossy Privet.” University of Florida IFAS Extension, edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp058.
