Ligustrum Wax Leaf

Description: The Ligustrum Wax Leaf is a dense, rounded evergreen shrub with glossy, leathery leaves that are oval to elliptical in shape. The foliage is dark green and typically retains its color throughout the year, providing year-round interest in the landscape. In late spring to early summer, the Wax Leaf Ligustrum produces small, creamy-white flowers in clusters at the tips of branches. These flowers are followed by small, blue-black berries that are attractive to birds but are considered poisonous if ingested by humans or pets.

Size: The Ligustrum Wax Leaf can vary in size depending on the specific cultivar and growing conditions. On average, it typically grows to a height of 6 to 12 feet (1.8 to 3.7 meters) with a similar spread. However, some cultivars may grow taller or wider, so it's essential to check the specific variety's mature size before planting. This shrub has a moderately fast growth rate and responds well to pruning, making it easy to maintain a desired size and shape.

Best Growing Zones: The Ligustrum Wax Leaf is adaptable to a wide range of growing conditions and is suitable for USDA hardiness zones 7 through 10. It thrives in temperate to subtropical climates with mild winters and hot summers. This shrub prefers full sun to partial shade, although it can tolerate some shade, especially in hotter climates. It is relatively tolerant of urban pollution and can be grown in a variety of environments, including urban and suburban landscapes.

Soil Requirements: The Ligustrum Wax Leaf prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level. It can tolerate a variety of soil types, including loamy, sandy, or clay soil, as long as it is well-drained. Amending the soil with organic matter such as compost or peat moss before planting can improve soil fertility and drainage, promoting healthy growth. This shrub is relatively drought-tolerant once established but benefits from regular watering, especially during dry periods.

Maintenance: The Ligustrum Wax Leaf is a low-maintenance shrub that requires minimal care once established. It should be watered regularly during the establishment period to encourage healthy root development, but it is relatively drought-tolerant once established. Pruning is generally not necessary for this shrub, but it can be pruned as needed to maintain a desired size and shape or to remove any dead or diseased branches. This shrub is relatively pest and disease resistant but may occasionally be affected by issues such as scale insects or aphids. These problems can usually be managed with proper cultural practices.