Chinese Privet (Ligustrum sinense)

Ligustrum sinense is known by the common name Chinese Privet. It seems to be ubiquitous in this area. It’s considered a pest and we keep open areas mowed to prevent it from taking over; it can grow to 20-30 feet tall.. Consequently, it usually survives at the edge of, or in open areas in the woods in full or partial sun. At Fort Yargo State Park, it grows on both sides of the trail in two areas along the trail from the Section B boat ramp (segment 2) before the trail reaches the pipeline right-of-way. In these locations, it is not uncommon to find Spring Azure butterflies in the Spring and it provides welcome shade from the sun in Summer.

I found this bush growing along the shore when the lake level was lowered early this year.

The buds are just beginning to develop. I’d forgotten what it was and thought how interesting they were.

The buds are not far from opening.

Flower clusters.

Flowers, a little closer.

An individual flower. It is quite exquisite.

Ligustrum sinense (Chinese Privet) is native to the Southeast Asia (China, Taipei, and Vietnam). It grows in the southeastern United States.
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Distribution Map:
- United States Department of Agriculture Plants Database: Ligustrum sinense (Chinese Privet)
- University of North Carolina Herbarium: Ligustrum sinense

Identification resources:
- Southeastern Flora: Chinese Privet (Ligustrum sinense)
- Natural and Naturalized Plants of the Carolinas and Georgia: Ligustrum sinense

Related posts:
- 2010: Year Of The Wildflower – Wildflower Index