Oval-leaved privet and Wild privet are often considered for the same spot in the garden (hedge, screening, pollinator friendly). The data below shows where they differ: size, hardiness, care, toxicity and price.
Ligustrum ovalifolium 3 m × 2 m after 10 years
An undemanding hedging shrub with glossy dark green leaves that thickens up quickly, grows in almost any soil and copes well with city air. It keeps…
Ligustrum vulgare 3 m × 2.5 m after 10 years
Wild privet is a native, undemanding and very drought-tolerant shrub and the classic material for a clipped hedge: it grows fast, takes any amount…
Wild privet is hardier: down to -34 °C, against -23 °C for Oval-leaved privet.
Wild privet tolerates drought better than Oval-leaved privet.
Wild privet needs less water than Oval-leaved privet.
Oval-leaved privet also grows in shade, Wild privet does not.
Wild privet is cheaper: about €6.70 at the size usually planted, against about €8.90 for Oval-leaved privet.
|
Feature
|
Oval-leaved privet
|
Wild privet
|
|---|---|---|
| Group | Hedge | Hedge |
| Size after 10 years | 3 m × 2 m | 3 m × 2.5 m |
| Ultimate size | 3–5 m × 2–4.5 m | 3–4.5 m × 2.5–4.5 m |
| Growth rate | Fast | Fast |
| Light | Full sun, Part shade, Shade | Full sun, Part shade |
| Soil | Average garden soil, Clay, Sandy, Calcareous | Average garden soil, Clay, Sandy, Calcareous |
| Hardiness | down to -23 °C (USDA 6, RHS H7) | down to -34 °C (USDA 4, RHS H7) |
| Foliage | Semi-evergreen | Semi-evergreen |
| Flowering | June–July, white | June–July, white |
| Water need | Medium | Low |
| Drought tolerance | Medium | High |
| Maintenance | Medium | Medium |
| Planting distance | 35 cm | 150 cm |
| For dogs | Toxic | Toxic |
| For cats | Toxic | Toxic |
| For children | Toxic (uncertain) | Toxic |
| Typical price | approx. €8.90 | approx. €6.70 |
Prices are rounded, indicative values. Toxicity data is for information only. If your pet or child has eaten a plant, contact a vet or a doctor. Data updated: October 8, 2026
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