Chinese Privet
Ligustrum lucidum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
180"–360" H × 120"–240" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
GA
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Chinese privet is a large evergreen tree that can reach 30 feet tall with a broad, dense canopy. It produces clusters of small white flowers in late spring that have a strong, somewhat unpleasant fragrance. This fast-growing tree maintains its glossy green leaves year-round and can quickly dominate a landscape.
In an HOA neighborhood
Chinese Privet takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
- Can spread aggressively and damage native ecosystems
- May be prohibited by local ordinances
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and beetles in late spring. However, this non-native species provides limited value to native wildlife and can crowd out beneficial native plants.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Chinese Privet fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.