Family: Oleaceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Ligustrum lucidum (glossy privet, broadleaf privet, Chinese wax-leaf privet, white waxtree) is native to a broad region of Asia, including Nepal, northeastern Myanmar, central and southern China, Hainan, and South Korea. It is a fast-growing evergreen tree or large shrub that can reach substantial heights in favorable conditions. The species is recognized for its dense, glossy dark green leaves, fragrant white flower clusters, and abundant production of small dark fruits. It has been widely planted as an ornamental landscape tree and hedge due to its attractive foliage, rapid growth, and tolerance of pruning and a range of environmental conditions.

Risks & Threats
In Hawaiʻi, Ligustrum lucidum is naturalized and has demonstrated the ability to spread beyond planted landscapes. It produces large quantities of bird-dispersed seeds and can establish in a variety of habitats, including disturbed forests and stream sides. This species’ fast growth, shade tolerance, and ability to form dense thickets allow it to outcompete native vegetation and alter understory plant communities. Because it is naturalized and possesses traits that are cause for concern, it could detrimentally impact tropical island ecosystems by reducing native biodiversity and changing habitat structure. For these reasons, it is recommended to choose a low-risk or native alternative when selecting plants for landscaping in Hawaiʻi.

High Risk Traits:

• Grows in temperate to subtropical climates, and elevation range exceeds 1000 m, demonstrating environmental versatility
  
• Naturalized on Hawaii Island, North and South America, Australia, New Zealand, Mozambique, and South Africa
  
• An environmental weed in Australia and Argentina
  
• Other Ligustrum species are invasive
  
• Toxic to animals (horses) and people
  
• Host of pathogens
  
• Shade-tolerant
  
• Tolerates many soil types
  
• Forms dense stands, excluding other vegetation
  
• Reproduces by seeds and vegetatively by suckering
  
• Self-compatible
  
• Seeds dispersed by birds, other frugivorous animals, ants, water, dumped garden waste and intentionally by people
  
• Prolific fruit and seed production
  
• Seeds can persist in the soil for 1-2.5 years
  
• Able resprout from cut stumps without herbicide treatment

Low Risk Traits:

• Unarmed (no spines, thorns, or burrs)
  
• Browsed by deer, pigs and sheep (palatable despite reports of toxicity)
  
• Ornamental
  
• Reaches maturity in 4+ years
  
• Herbicides may provide effective control