Howard Ligustrum, also known as Ligustrum japonicum ‘Howardii’, is a popular and adaptable evergreen shrub. Gardeners frequently select it for its attractive foliage and ease of care. Its versatility makes it a reliable choice for various landscape purposes, offering year-round visual appeal.
Identifying Howard Ligustrum
Howard Ligustrum is a broadleaf evergreen shrub with distinctive foliage. New growth emerges bright golden-yellow, maturing to rich green, creating a two-tone effect. Its glossy, thick, leathery leaves are oval to lance-shaped, generally 2 to 10 cm long. This shrub typically reaches 6 to 8 feet tall and spreads 4 to 6 feet wide. In mid-spring, it produces small, fragrant white flowers, followed by small, round, blue-black, berry-like fruits.
Planting and Ongoing Care
Howard Ligustrum adapts to various environments, but specific conditions promote its best growth. Plant in early spring in full sun to partial shade, preferably at least four to six hours of direct sunlight daily to enhance its golden foliage color. While it tolerates various soil types, well-drained soil is optimal, adapting to a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. Avoid poorly drained areas that may become waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot.
When planting, dig a hole two to three times wider than the root ball and deep enough so the top is level with the ground. Backfill with excavated soil, gently tamping to eliminate air pockets, then water thoroughly. Apply a 2 to 3-inch layer of organic mulch around the base, keeping it a few inches from the trunk, to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Initial watering is crucial for establishment; water twice a week during the first two months. Once established, Howard Ligustrum is moderately drought-tolerant, but regular watering is beneficial, especially during dry periods or extreme heat. Check the top 2-3 inches of soil; if dry, it is time to water. For fertilizing, apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring before new growth, and potentially again in mid-summer. Organic fertilizers can be applied twice in spring and autumn. Avoid fertilizing in summer when temperatures exceed 30°C (86°F) or during winter dormancy.
Pruning for Health and Shape
Pruning is important for maintaining the health and desired shape of Howard Ligustrum. This shrub responds well to trimming. The best time for major pruning is in late winter or early spring, before new growth, to minimize stress and encourage robust regrowth.
Regular light pruning maintains a neat, compact form and promotes denser foliage. Remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches to improve plant health and air circulation. For shaping, especially hedges, trim overgrown stems to achieve the desired size and density. While heavy pruning is tolerated, light, annual pruning is generally sufficient for health and aesthetics. If used as a hedge, ensure the bottom is as wide as the top to allow sunlight to reach the lower branches, promoting uniform growth.
Common Applications and Important Considerations
Its dense growth and evergreen nature make Howard Ligustrum an excellent choice for privacy screens, borders, or formal hedges. It can also serve as an ornamental specimen plant or be trained into a small tree form. Its golden-yellow new foliage provides eye-catching contrast and year-round interest.
This plant is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can occasionally be affected by aphids, scale insects, fungal leaf spots, or root rot, particularly in poorly drained conditions. Promptly addressing any signs of infestation or disease helps maintain plant vigor.
Some Ligustrum species are considered invasive in certain regions. Ligustrum japonicum ‘Howardii’, a Japanese Privet cultivar, can be invasive in some U.S. areas; check local regulations before planting. All parts of the plant, including its berries and leaves, contain compounds mildly toxic if ingested by humans or pets. Ingestion may cause abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. While fatalities are rare, keep children and pets from consuming any part of the plant.