Ligustrum sp.
Characteristics
The Privet family includes multiple species, cultivars, and hybrids of privets that are often planted ornamentally but have a tendency to escape into natural habitats. KISMA focuses mainly on the border privet, amur privet, and hybrids of the two.
- woody shrub that grows around 10 feet tall with multiple stems
- opposite leaves are usually oblong to ovate in shape, and around 1.5 inches long
- stems, petioles, and leaves are often pubescent in varying amounts depending on species
- white to cream flowers grow in clumps at the end of branches and bloom around June
Differentiating between privet species can be challenging especially due to the likelihood of hybridization.
For more identification tips, or to differentiate between privet species, visit WiGL and MIPNand search for privets.
KISMA Management Practices
Currently, KISMA does not actively manage privet species. However, their ability to escape gardens and establish thick understory thickets in natural areas makes them a KISMA species of concern. Report any instances of privets found in natural habitats to KISMA. Currently we are focusing on building a better understanding of where this plant occurs through the Keweenaw.


(image credit: August Camp) opposite leaves of privet

(image credit: August Camp) privet lower branch leaf structure

(image credit: August Camp) privet leaves with unripened berries
Sources
“Amur Privet: Ligustrum Amurense .” Invasive Plant Atlas of the United States, 2018,