Privet has rich green leaves and forms creamy white flowers in July, which are attractive to butterflies and birds but are generally clipped away. Privet is an almost indestructible evergreen hedge once established and is a very popular choice for hedging.
It is quite fast growing (approx 30cm per annum) and should be trimmed a couple of times during the summer to encourage the formation of a dense formal garden hedge, resistant to pollution and therefore popular in urban and suburban gardens. Its leaves and flowers are harmful if eaten.
- Privet will grow well virtually anywhere other than wet sites.
- Suitable for coastal situations, although it may defoliate a bit in winter near the coast
- Attractive formal hedge