Ligustrum japonicum Nobilis

Japanese Privet

Ligustrum japonicum ‘Nobilis’ (Variegated Japanese Privet) is a dense, evergreen shrub with a rounded to upright habit, featuring glossy green leaves edged in creamy white variegation that provides year-round interest. Small, fragrant white flowers appear in late spring to early summer, followed by dark berries. This cultivar is valued for its bright foliage and versatility in hedging and foundation plantings.

Type: Shrub (Evergreen)
Mature Size: 6–8' W × 6–10' H
USDA Zones: 7a–10b
Form: Rounded to upright, dense

Light: Full sun to part shade
Soil / Water: Adaptable to well-drained soils; moderate water, tolerates drought once established
Bloom Time / Length: Late spring to early summer; short (2–3 weeks)

Wildlife: Birds (fruit), bees

Features & Landscape Uses:
Excellent for hedges, screens, and foundation plantings. The variegated foliage brightens landscapes and provides contrast in mixed plantings. Tolerates pruning well, making it suitable for formal or informal hedging.

Care:
Prune as needed to maintain shape and encourage dense growth. Remove any non-variegated shoots to maintain foliage color. Adaptable and low maintenance once established; avoid overly wet soils.

Plant type

Evergreen Shrub

Height

6-10'

Width

6-8'

Hardiness zones

7–10

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Fast

Bloom time

Early Summer, Late Spring

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Dark Green

Fall color

Dark Green

Attracts

Bees, Birds

Soil

Highly Adaptable, Well Drained

Landscape use

Foundation Plant, Hedge, Privacy Screen

Shape

Rounded, Upright

Bark

Smooth

Fruit

Yes

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Salt tolerant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No