The ‘Straight Talk Privet’, scientifically known as Ligustrum vulgare ‘Swift’, is a distinctive cultivar prized for its remarkably narrow, upright growth habit. This columnar form makes it an excellent choice for vertical accents or creating slender privacy screens. Its unique structure allows gardeners to achieve a formal, well-defined look without consuming excessive space.
Key Characteristics and Benefits
The ‘Straight Talk Privet’ is known for its columnar shape, reaching 10 to 12 feet tall with a narrow 2 to 4 foot spread. This makes it ideal for tight spaces. It is hardy in USDA Zones 4 through 8.
It tolerates diverse conditions, including cold and drought once established. It adapts to various soil types and thrives in urban environments or areas with environmental salt. It is also notably deer resistant.
Its natural slender form contributes to its low-maintenance nature. In late spring to early summer, it produces small, fragrant white flowers that attract pollinators, followed by black berries that appeal to birds.
Planting Guide
Choosing the right planting site is important. It performs best in full sun to partial shade, ideally with at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for dense foliage. Well-drained soil is essential, as roots do not tolerate waterlogged conditions. While adaptable to many soil types, including clay, loam, and sand, a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0) is beneficial.
Before planting, amend the soil with organic matter like compost to improve drainage and nutrient content. For a dense hedge, plant privets approximately 18 inches apart; a zig-zag pattern can accelerate screen formation. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the ground. After placing the plant, backfill with prepared soil, gently tamping to eliminate air pockets, and water thoroughly to settle the soil.
Care and Maintenance
Consistent care helps ‘Straight Talk Privet’ establish and thrive. During its first year, regular watering is important for root development, typically requiring about an inch of water weekly. Once established, it becomes drought-tolerant, but benefits from occasional deep watering during extended dry periods. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent over-saturation.
Fertilize once a year in early spring, as new growth emerges and before flowering. A granular slow-release fertilizer with a balanced NPK ratio (e.g., 15-5-10) supports plant health and foliage color. Supplementing with organic compost mulch around the base can enhance soil quality and moisture retention.
Pruning can be done at any time, but heavy shaping is best in early spring or immediately after flowering to avoid removing next year’s flower buds. For hedges, maintain a slightly wider base than the top to allow sunlight to reach lower branches, promoting uniform density. It is highly resistant to common issues like leaf scorch, leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot.