Family: Oleaceae

Origin, Description & Uses:
Ligustrum sinense (Chinese privet or small-leaf privet) is native to China, Vietnam, and Taiwan. It is a fast-growing evergreen shrub or small tree commonly used in ornamental landscaping, especially for hedges and privacy screens. The plant has dense foliage, small glossy leaves, and produces clusters of white flowers followed by dark berries. It has been widely planted due to its tolerance of pruning, varied soil conditions, and ability to thrive in both sun and partial shade.

Risks & Threats:
Although Ligustrum sinense is naturalized in several locations in Hawaiʻi, including Kauaʻi and Hawaiʻi Island, it possesses traits that are cause for concern. It spreads readily by bird-dispersed seeds and can form dense thickets that crowd out native vegetation, reducing biodiversity and altering forest structure. Its shade tolerance and vigorous growth allow it to invade disturbed areas and natural ecosystems alike. This species could detrimentally impact tropical island ecosystems by displacing native plants and degrading habitat quality. Because of these risks, 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 2500 m, demonstrating environmental versatility
  
• Naturalized in several locations, including Kauai and Hawaii islands
  
• Agricultural and environmental weed
  
• Other Ligustrum species are invasive
  
• Potentially allelopathic
  
• Toxic to animals and people
  
• Host of pathogens
  
• Shade-tolerant
  
• Tolerates many soil types
  
• Forms dense stands, excluding other vegetation
  
• Reproduces by seeds and vegetatively by suckering
  
• Partial self-compatibility
  
• Seeds dispersed by birds, other frugivorous animals, water and intentionally by people
  
• Prolific seed production
  
• Able resprout after cutting and fire

Low Risk Traits:

• Unarmed (no spines, thorns, or burrs)
  
• Browsed by deer and other animals (palatable despite reports of toxicity)
  
• Ornamental
  
• Reaches maturity in 4+ years
  
• Seeds lose viability after 12 months
  
• Herbicides may provide effective control