Sunshine Ligustrum, Sunshine Privet

Forget all the stories about ligustrum or privet being invasive. ‘Sunshine Ligustrum’ is a newer dwarf cultivar that is sterile and does not bloom, thus is non-invasive and as an added bonus is not a problem to allergy sufferers. It is ideal for an evergreen hedge, and very colorful in the garden with its bright yellow-green leaves that can be seen from blocks away. This is an easy care full sun plant in any soil in zones 6 to 10, with incredible heat and drought tolerance. The mature size is 3′-6′ tall and 3′-4′ wide, and while it will grow in the shade, it will not be as large, nor will it have the bright yellow leaves that makes the plant so noticeable. It makes a great screening hedge, and is beautiful planted alongside purple plants like Loropetalum or above red and yellow daylilies or other flowers. Because it can be kept as small as desired, add it to container arrangements for contrast against dark green aspidistra and purple heuchera, with a spiller of fig ivy or Asian jasmine. The single drawback to this plant, particularly if the gardener prefers plants that are unusual, is its massive popularity and use in many commercial mass plantings. It seems to be everywhere.