Ligustrum ovalifolium Hedge Plants Description

Privet hedge plants (Ligustrum ovalifolium) are known for their rich, oval-shaped green leaves and masses of delicate white flowers that bloom in summer, attracting butterflies and bees. Once established, Ligustrum ovalifolium is almost a permanent evergreen hedge, but can experience some leaf fall during the winter, which is why it is considered semi-evergreen.

Privet hedging is popular for its dense foliage that not only offers privacy, but also protects against pollution when grown as a formal hedge, making it perfect for urban or suburban gardens. This robust shrub is a relatively fast grower – around 30cm per year – and grows well in most conditions, except for particularly wet sites. Privet is also suitable for coastal locations, although you may notice some defoliation during winter.

For alternatives to common Privet hedging, there is Golden Privet which boasts the same growing habits but more colourful foliage, and Wild Privet, which has narrow leaves and a looser growing pattern.

You’ll see our recommended planting densities for each size and root type listed in the product grid. We suggest that you use these as a guide, taking into consideration how long you’re willing to wait to see your finished hedge. As a rough indication bare roots can be planted at anything from 3 to 7 per metre and cell grown between 4 and 6 - the higher densities here would need to be planted in a double staggered row or zig-zag.

For more information on planting distances please see our planting density advice section.

General hedge trimming should be done twice a year, once in early June and again in late September. It is important to prune at the right time, so as not to remove new growing shoots.

Free delivery is available on all orders providing they meet the minimum spend criteria for the size of box or pallet. Pallet deliveries and large box deliveries for tall plants are indicated by icons on the product table listings. Delivery costs and minimum order details for each packaging type are as follows:


There are some exceptions to the standard delivery pricing structure, which relate to deliveries to more remote areas, overseas, or extremely tall plants requiring specialist delivery - for more information see the Delivery Information Page

It's Quick! - Please note current delivery is 3 - 7 working days! (Some trees can be 7-10 days as standard - see product pages for info.)

Next Day Delivery is Available - We can offer next day delivery on eligible species and sizes for an additional £12 incl VAT. Call 01257 263 873 to find out if your order is eligible.

It's Convenient - no need to wait in all day to sign, we don't need a signature (the odd, larger order may require a signature but will be delivered at a mutually agreeable time)

It's Tried & Tested - we use only couriers who have shown consistency in their efficiency & care

* Please note that delivery costs are based on the final order amount in your cart after any discounts have been applied.

Hedges Direct 12 Month Plant Guarantee

Our plants are guaranteed for 12 months after delivery subject to specific criteria. Visit our Hedges Direct Plant Guarantee Page for full details.