Variegated Privet

Scientific Name: Ligustrum sinense 'Variegatum'

Common Names: Variegated Privet, Chinese Privet

Native to: China and Southeast Asia (naturalized in other regions)

Lighting Requirements: Full sun to partial shade

Height: 6–10 feet 

Width: 6–10 feet 

Winter Look: Evergreen to semi-evergreen; retains foliage in warmer climates, may thin in colder regions

Seasonal Interest: Year-round with cream-and-green variegated foliage; small white flowers in late spring or early summer

Drought Tolerance: Moderate once established

Soil Requirements: Well-drained soils; adaptable to a variety of soil types

pH Range: 6.0–8.0 (slightly acidic to moderately alkaline)

Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 7–10

Deer Resistance: Moderate; may experience occasional browsing

Attracts: Pollinators (bees, butterflies) when in bloom; birds (use berries for food)

Toxicity: Mildly toxic; berries can cause gastrointestinal upset if ingested

Potential Issues: None that I have seen

Notes: Variegated Privet is valued for its ornamental foliage and versatility in the landscape. It can be used for hedges or as specimen plantings. Prune regularly to maintain size and shape, as it can grow aggressively in favorable conditions. Variegated Privets are beautiful when allowed to grow into a small tree. Their flexible branches give the plant a weeping look that's fountain-like when in bloom. Occasionally, some branches may revert to their original form (green only with no variation). If this happens, prune out the green, or it will look like two separate plants growing in the same place.