Vicary Privet Ligustrum x vicaryi

Golden privet is a deciduous, perennial shrub in the olive family (Oleaceae) with golden-yellow foliage. This plant was described as a putative garden hybrid between Ligustrum ovalifolium f. aureum (now, L. ovalifolium ‘Aureum’) and L. vulgare, originating in the garden of Vicary Gibbs of Aldenham, Middlesex, England. The hybrid epithet honors Mr. Gibbs (1853–1932), a barrister, merchant, Member of Parliament and collector of rare trees and shrubs.

Plant it in full sun to partial shade in dry to moist soil.  It is tolerant of a variety of soil types and is resistant to drought and deer damage. The leaves change from yellow to chartreuse at maturity, and in the autumn, they develop reddish fall color. In the late spring, creamy white tubular flowers appear and have a fragrance (but not necessarily a pleasant one). Flowers are followed by blue-black fruit.

Use this shrub as a specimen, an informal screen, a hedge or in a shrub border. If you grow it as an informal hedge or screen, be sure to let it keep more of its natural shape, taking care not to trim away the new shoots that display the golden yellow color. When pruning, keep in mind that next year's blossoms will appear on new growth.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  No serious problems.