Amur Privet

Amur Privet is a stately shrub that makes for a very effective and beautiful hedge. White flowers grow in full and abundant clusters against dark green foliage. The flowers are replaced by small black fruit that ripens by the fall. Also known as Ligustrum amurense, this deciduous shrub is semi-evergreen in warm climates. This densely branched shrub is full, making it an excellent privacy screen or hedge. This cultivar can grow to be very large, and it responds well to pruning, so you can ensure it fits your space and the desired look. Butterflies are drawn to the flowers, and birds will flock to the plant to feed on the berries. This fast-growing shrub is a perennial in USDA zones 3 through 7. Amur Privet Care This lovely shrub needs at least 4 to 6 hours of sunlight. Amur Privet can handle various soil types, but the soil must be well-drained because this plant does not like wet feet. New plants need deep, weekly watering to become established. Shrubs that have settled in only need water when the top several inches of soil are dry. Apply fertilizer with a ratio like 15-5-10 in early spring or late fall to support new growth. Prune this plant after the flowers fade. You can remove up to one-third of the growth to shape and style as desired. Amur Privet is hardy and fast-growing, and cutting it back will encourage more vigorous growth. Amur Privet Spacing This sizable upright shrub will grow 12 to 15 feet tall and 8 to 15 feet wide. Shrubs can be spaced 8 to 15 feet apart to create a dense hedge.