Contents
Description
Ligustrum Ovalifolium Aureum, commonly known as Golden Privet, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Oleaceae family. Native to Japan and Korea, it is widely cultivated for its attractive golden-yellow leaves and white flowers. It can grow up to 8 feet tall and 6 feet wide and has a dense, bushy growth habit. Golden Privet is an excellent hedging plant and can be used as a specimen plant in gardens, parks, and landscapes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Oleaceae |
| Genus | Ligustrum |
Appearance
Golden Privet is a deciduous shrub that has oval-shaped leaves with a glossy, bright golden-yellow color. The leaves are 1-2 inches long and 0.5-1 inch wide. In spring, it produces small, fragrant, white flowers that are arranged in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruit is a small, black berry that is not edible.
Care Guide
Golden Privet is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for taking care of it:
Water: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep, extensive root system. Afterward, water when the top inch of soil is dry.
Fertilization: Fertilize in the spring with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Soil: Golden Privet prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soil.
Sunlight: Golden Privet prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Golden Privet is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Golden Privet is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can still be affected by some common issues, including:
Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to wilt and turn yellow. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
Scale insects: These pests attach themselves to the stems and leaves and suck the sap from the plant, causing yellowing and stunted growth. Use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to control them.
Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves, which can lead to leaf drop. Use a fungicide to control it.
Habitat
Golden Privet is native to Japan and Korea and grows in a wide range of habitats, including forests, meadows, and mountain slopes. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Golden Privet?
A: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep, extensive root system. Afterward, water when the top inch of soil is dry.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Golden Privet?
A: Golden Privet is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Q: What pests and diseases affect Golden Privet?
A: Golden Privet is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can still be affected by aphids, scale insects, and powdery mildew.
Q: How tall does Golden Privet grow?
A: Golden Privet can grow up to 8 feet tall and 6 feet wide.
Related Plants
- Ligustrum Japonicum
- Ligustrum Lucidum
- Ligustrum Vulgare
References
- “Ligustrum Ovalifolium Aureum”. Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 24 June 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a440
- “Golden Privet (Ligustrum Ovalifolium Aureum)”. Gardenia.net. Accessed 24 June 2021. https://www.gardenia.net/plant/ligustrum-ovalifolium-aureum-golden-privet
- “Ligustrum Ovalifolium Aureum”. Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 24 June 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/5922/Ligustrum-ovalifolium-Aureum/Details
