Ligustrum ovalifolium - California Privet

California Privet is a dense, fast-growing evergreen shrub prized for its upright mounding habit and versatility as a formal or informal hedge. In spring, it produces highly fragrant white flower clusters that fill the garden with a bold, distinctive scent — though many find the fragrance an acquired taste. Its rich, glossy foliage stays green through the seasons, creating a lush, full privacy screen year-round.

Best suited for full sun in moist, well-drained soil, California Privet responds beautifully to shearing and can be shaped into crisp, formal hedges or left to grow in a more natural, billowing form. Despite its common name, this plant is not native to California — it originates from Japan and Korea and has naturalized widely across the US.

Ideal for: Privacy hedges, windbreaks, property borders, and formal garden structure.