Common Privet
Ligustrum vulgare
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
60"–120" H × 48"–96" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul
Native to
WV
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Common privet is a dense, fast-growing shrub that forms thick hedges and screens. It produces clusters of small white flowers in summer followed by dark berries. This adaptable plant tolerates various growing conditions and responds well to pruning.
In an HOA neighborhood
Common Privet takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Spreads aggressively and crowds out native plants
- May be prohibited by environmental regulations
Wildlife value
The summer flowers attract bees and beetles for nectar. Birds may eat the berries, though they are considered mildly toxic to humans and pets.
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 Common Privet fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.