Contents
Description
Ligustrum Sinense is a popular ornamental plant commonly known as Chinese Privet. It belongs to the Oleaceae family and is native to China. The plant is highly valued for its beautiful white flowers that bloom in the summer and its glossy green leaves that remain evergreen throughout the year. The plant can grow up to 15 feet tall and 8 feet wide. It is commonly used as a hedge or screen plant due to its dense growth habit.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Oleaceae |
| Genus | Ligustrum |
Appearance
Ligustrum Sinense has glossy green leaves that are ovate to lanceolate in shape, measuring 2-4 inches long and 1 inch wide. The leaves are arranged opposite each other on the stem. The plant produces clusters of fragrant white flowers in the summer, followed by small blue-black berries that are poisonous to humans. The plant can grow up to 15 feet tall and 8 feet wide, with a dense and bushy growth habit.
Care Guide
To care for Ligustrum Sinense, provide it with well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. Water the plant regularly, especially during the hot summer months. Fertilize the plant in the spring and fall with a balanced fertilizer. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ligustrum Sinense is susceptible to a range of pests and diseases, including scale insects, spider mites, leaf spot, and powdery mildew. Regular inspection and treatment with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil can help control these pests. Good cultural practices, such as proper watering and fertilization, can also help prevent diseases.
Habitat
Ligustrum Sinense is native to China and is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Ligustrum Sinense a fast-growing plant?
A: Yes, Ligustrum Sinense is a fast-growing plant that can grow up to 2 feet per year.
Q: Can I grow Ligustrum Sinense in a container?
A: Yes, Ligustrum Sinense can be grown in a container, but it will require regular watering and fertilization.
Q: Is Ligustrum Sinense toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the berries of Ligustrum Sinense are toxic to pets if ingested.
Q: How often should I prune Ligustrum Sinense?
A: Ligustrum Sinense should be pruned once a year in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Related Plants
- Ligustrum Japonicum
- Ligustrum Lucidum
- Ligustrum Vulgare
- Ligustrum Ovalifolium
References
- “Ligustrum sinense.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282803&isprofile=0&pt=2
- “Ligustrum sinense.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/ST/ST23500.pdf
- “Ligustrum sinense.” Clemson Cooperative Extension. https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/ligustrum/
