Ligustrum japonicum - Medicinal Herbs,Shrub - Japanese Privet Page

Introducing the Ligustrum japonicum Japanese Privet! This evergreen shrub or small tree is the perfect addition to any garden or landscape. Growing to a height of 2-5 meters (rarely 6 meters), its smooth pale grey-brown bark adds a touch of elegance to its appearance.

The leaves of the Ligustrum japonicum are a sight to behold, measuring 5-10 centimeters long and 2-5 centimeters broad. They are glossy dark green above and slightly paler glaucous to yellowish green below. With their thick and leathery texture, along with an entire margin, they exude a sense of sophistication.

In early summer, clusters of beautiful white flowers grace this shrub, their four-lobed corolla measuring 5-6 millimeters long. These showy blooms create a stunning display, adding charm and vibrancy to any garden. As the seasons transition, oval drupes measuring 10 millimeters long appear, ripening into a purple-black shade with a captivating glaucous waxy bloom. In Japan, these fruits are humorously likened to mouse or rat droppings due to their shape.

Thriving in various soil types, the Ligustrum japonicum is an extremely resilient plant. It can adapt to any soil as long as it is not impoverished or water-logged. This versatile plant even grows well in heavy clay soils. It thrives in both sun and semi-shade, providing flexibility in terms of placement within your garden.

Originating in central and southern Japan, as well as Korea, this species of Ligustrum (privet) is celebrated for its hardiness and aesthetic appeal. Widely cultivated across different regions, it has even naturalized in California and the southeastern United States.

While this shrub has its benefits, it is worth noting that it has become an invasive plant in certain areas, particularly in the American South. However, in Europe and North America, it is commonly grown as an ornamental plant, adding beauty and charm to outdoor spaces. Over the years, several cultivars have been selected for garden use, such as the "Rotundifolium" with leaves nearly as broad as they are long and the "Silver Star" with creamy-white margins on its leaves.

It is worth mentioning that the fruit of the Ligustrum japonicum holds medicinal properties and is used in herbal medicine as a cardiotonic, diuretic, laxative, and tonic treatment.

To learn more about this fascinating shrub, visit our website at http://plants.usda.gov. Discover the wonder and potential of the Ligustrum japonicum Japanese Privet for your own garden!