Privet plants have often received a bad reputation among gardeners. They are perceived as dull, invasive, and uncontrollable. However, not all privets should be judged based on the actions of a few troublemakers. In reality, many privets are polite garden subjects that add beauty to any landscape. Let’s discover the hidden charm of the wax leaf privet and how it can enhance your garden.
Embracing the Good
One exceptional privet variety that deserves attention is the Japanese privet (Ligustrum japonicum). Misidentification often leads to a negative perception of privets, as all types tend to have a similar appearance. However, the Japanese privet, when given enough space to grow, reveals its true elegance. It is a resilient plant, making it an ideal choice for challenging areas. Moreover, there are smaller forms within the Japanese privet family that stand out.
One such form is the ‘Texanum’ privet, commonly known as the Waxleaf Privet. With its graceful arching shoots, this compact plant reaches a modest height of 6 to 8 feet. In spring, it boasts magnificent clusters of pure-white, 8-inch-long flowers. The Waxleaf Privet thrives in large pots and planter boxes, making it a delightful addition to terraces and patios. Similarly, the curved-leaf privet, known as ‘Recurvifolium,’ features twisted leaves that infuse an elegant touch. This evergreen variety can be easily grown and maintained as a hedge.
Another noteworthy privet is the California privet (Ligustrum ovalifolium). Even if left untrimmed, it never surpasses 15 feet in height, usually maintaining a manageable height of around 10 feet. This low-maintenance plant withstands drought and heat with ease. Its versatility shines through as it can be trimmed into hedges ranging from 4 to 12 feet in height. Apart from its attractive foliage, the California privet also attracts butterflies with its honey-scented blossoms, providing a valuable food source for these delicate creatures.
Identifying the Bad
While some privets excel in the garden, there are a couple of species that can be safely crossed off the guest list. The European privet (Ligustrum vulgare), also known as common privet, falls into this category. Particularly in the north-eastern regions, this fast-growing plant tends to overrun gardens and forests. Its unsightly flowers produce an abundance of seeds, further contributing to its invasive nature.
Moving southwards, we encounter the Chinese privet (Ligustrum sinense), the bully of the playground. Although not particularly cold-hardy, it thrives in the warm and humid climates of the south-east. This aggressive variety quickly spreads, outcompeting native species in natural forests. However, the variegated form of Chinese privet displays a more docile nature. Its leaves are edged in white, offering a pleasant aesthetic. The growth rate is slower, accompanied by fewer flowers, making it a safer choice that minimizes environmental risks.
Occasionally referred to as Chinese privet, but more accurately known as glossy privet, Ligustrum lucidum exhibits attractive shiny foliage. However, in areas like Texas, this plant demonstrates invasive tendencies. Birds consume the berries and then distribute the seeds as they move about, unwittingly aiding the plant’s spread beyond the confines of the garden.
Revealing the Beautiful
At first glance, calling something as ordinary as privet “beautiful” may seem like an exaggeration. Nevertheless, when cared for attentively, privets in tree and hedge form can be truly magnificent additions to any garden. A blooming privet tree exhibits an enchanting appeal, comparable to that of a Japanese tree lilac, a universally acclaimed garden favorite. Additionally, privets maintain their evergreen foliage throughout the year, adding a sense of vibrancy to the landscape.
What truly enhances the beauty of privet is regular hedge trimming. This simple act transforms an ordinary hedge into a remarkable garden feature. Opting for the variegated Japanese privet creates a dazzling hedge that sparkles with color throughout every season. Trimming immediately after flowering eliminates the risk of uncontrolled seeding and spreading, ensuring that privets remain well-behaved and visually appealing.
Lastly, it is crucial to grant privets enough space to fully develop. Placing plants in confined areas often leads to constant pruning, preventing them from reaching their desired mature form. Consequently, the plants can become a nuisance and eventually need removal. All plants require adequate room for proper development. Therefore, it is essential to measure your chosen spot and compare it to the anticipated size of the plant.
In conclusion, privets should not be dismissed solely on the basis of their reputation. By carefully selecting the right variety and providing proper care, privets can become tasteful additions to any garden. Explore the subtle beauty of the wax leaf privet and witness the transformation of your outdoor space into a breathtaking sanctuary.
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