Privet plants (Ligustrum spp. ), commonly known as privet hedges, are evergreen flowering shrubs that, depending on the variety, can also be grown as small, bushy trees. The Ligustrum genus contains about 50 different species, all of which can provide a spectacular, traditional appearance when planted along a property line. Its common name, “privacy,” suggests that these bushes are useful for creating a private outdoor space by acting as a de facto fence.
When viewed separately, many privet species are not extremely appealing plants. They are evergreen or deciduous and possess glossy green leaves that are either oval or lance-shaped; the color of the leaves varies by species.
Cheyenne Privet Size and Height
Cheyenne Privet is a hedge plant because of its dense branching and dark green foliage. It tolerates severe shearing and grows up to 5 feet tall and 6 feet wide. This deciduous shrub matures to a height of 4–15 feet and a width of 4–10 feet. The dark green, lance-shaped leaves reach a length of 2 1/2 inches. The round, blue-black fruit follows the white flowers on panicles that grow up to 2 inches in length.
Cheyenne Privet Growth Rate
The time necessary to develop a privet hedge depends on the growth rate of the planted privet variety and the growing conditions. It is a fast-growing shrub. Some species of privet reach a height of 6 feet in just 3 years.
At maturity, Cheyenne Privet measures approximately 12 feet in height and 6 feet in width. Because of its somewhat erect growth habit and low clearance of 1 foot from the ground, it is capable of planting beneath overhead power lines. It matures quickly and possesses a life expectancy of about 30 years in captivity.
Cheyenne Privet Care
Privet shrubs are able to thrive in a diverse range of soil and climate conditions, and they require little attention once established. However, adequate drainage is required for their planting location. Additionally, some species of privet are regarded as invasive plants, though this varies from region to region. Before planting any new species, check to see if they are native to the region. Growing privet in a container is not recommended due to the plant’s rapid expansion and large size.
To establish a new hedge, place the privets approximately one foot apart in a trench that is two feet wide and two feet deep, and then mound the soil around the stems. It is important to remember to provide regular watering for newly planted privets as well as established plants during periods of drought. Throughout the growing season, it is also essential to fertilize the plants (spring to fall).
Cheyenne Privet Zones
This shrub thrives in full to partial sunlight. It thrives in a wide range of moisture levels, making it a good choice for the typical domestic landscape. It is tolerant of environmental salt and is not particular about soil type or pH. It is extremely resistant to urban pollution and even thrives in densely populated areas. This species is a particular variety that is not native to North America.
The leaves of privet shrubs typically fall off in the autumn in locations with cooler climates. Therefore, they cannot serve as a year-round privacy hedge. The preferred temperatures vary depending on the species. If they receive an adequate amount of water, however, they are able to withstand temperatures that are well below freezing as well as the heat of the summer. It works best in USDA climate zones 4 to 8.
Most of the time, humidity isn’t a problem, but fungal diseases often grow on leaves that stay wet for too long and don’t get enough air circulation.
Cheyenne Privet Problems
The desirable characteristic of privet, its vigorous growth, is often regarded as a problem. It is necessary to prune a privet hedge regularly mostly between two and four times during each growing season to keep it in a manageable shape. Choose a privet variety that does not overtake the yard because the rate of privet growth varies.
If a privet hedge is not pruned correctly, it develops bare spots in the hedge. Although privet is susceptible to pests like aphids, scale, mealybugs, leaf miners, and mites, these problems typically don’t compromise the plant’s health. Twig blight and Anthracnose are among the more severe diseases that affect a tree.
