Picture of Privet narrowleaf

Privet narrowleaf

NOXIOUS WEED
Class 4
The growth and spread of the plant must be controlled according to the measures specified in a management plan published by local control authority.

botanical name: Liguatrum sinense
family: OLEACEAE

also known as
Chinese Privet

Perennial evergreen large shrub to small tree with smooth grey bark and glossy leaves in opposite pairs. Leaves less than 6cm but can be variable with either wavy or straight leaf margins. Oval, pale green. Flowers creamy white, small, in spring dense clusters at branch tips. Berries mature in winter (May to September). Germinates well in shady positions. Privet loves nutrient rich moist sites, such as damp gullies.

Control

MANUAL
Small plants can be hand pulled easily, if they haven't been grazed.

CHEMICAL
Blanket spray small seedlings with 1% glyphosate. Take care not to overspray desirable native species. Cut and paint is the most effective treatment for for mature species. If drilling and injecting, make sure that holes are close (two finger widths apart). This method should be considered where it is difficult to cut and paint, or when allowing replacement plants time to establish before removing Privet debris. Plan to follow up in Spring.

Confusing Species

Backhousia myrtifolia Grey Myrtle (native species)
Breynia oblongifolia Breynia (native species)

Other Information

Native to China and Japan. Suckers from roots when disturbed. Should be removed prior to fruit set in winter. Seeds reduce in viability after the first year.