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.
Common questions
- How much sun does Chinese Privet need?
- Chinese Privet grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Chinese Privet bloom?
- Chinese Privet blooms in May and June.
- Where is Chinese Privet native?
- Chinese Privet (Ligustrum lucidum) is native to GA, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Chinese Privet attract?
- Chinese Privet draws bees and beetles.
- Is Chinese Privet HOA-friendly?
- Chinese Privet takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Ready to grow Chinese Privet? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz