Ligustrum ‘Sunshine’ Privet

A Southern Living® variety, Ligustrum ‘Sunshine’ is an evergreen shrub in Zones 7 and above, a semi-deciduous shrub in Zone 6. But this colorful ornamental shrub adds a brilliant “pop” of color wherever it’s planted, and the color goes great with everything. In fact, its bright golden hues and delicate appearance are perfect for creating stunning contrasts of colors and textures in the garden. And this privet does not flower, so it’s both sterile and allergen free.

A Ligustrum sinense, commonly called privet, ‘Sunshine’ has a compact, dense, upright habit. The size of this privet depends on growing conditions. It can range in height between 3 feet and 6 feet and in width between 3 feet and 4 feet, with larger size occurring in optimal conditions. The dense branching responds well to pruning, which makes it perfect for a specimen, formal hedge, or topiary—let your imagination run wild. Unpruned, the plant has a naturally loose, airy appearance, which is nice used in the landscape or as screening. It also makes a great container plant.

Easy-care, privet grows best in sunny locations with average, well-draining soil. It benefits from yearly fertilization in spring. Pruning is not required, but any desired shaping should be done in spring or summer. Ligustrum ‘Sunshine’ is pet friendly as well as disease, pest, and deer resistant.