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nz privet

If you're searching for information about nz privet, you've come to the right place. In New Zealand, "privet" refers to several Ligustrum species used commonly as hedging or screening plants in gardens and landscaping. At the same time, some privets have become notorious as invasive weeds, so it's essential to choose the right variety for your needs. Whether you're looking for tips on how to identify nz privet, advice on planting, or suggestions for suitable alternatives, this page will guide you through everything you need to know.

Ligustrum 'Rotundifolium' plants for sale at The Plant Company nursery.

Ligustrum 'Rotundifolium'

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Ligustrum 'Rotundifolium' (Japanese Privet) is a hardy evergreen shrub admired for its rounded glossy green leaves and dense compact growth habit. This versatile plant is widely used in NZ gardens for hedging, screening, and formal planting where year round structure and privacy are desired.

From $21.95

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type: Shrubs
Height: 3.00 m
Spread: 2.50 m
Flowering time: Summer
Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy
Garden uses: Containers, Hedging, Living areas, Pool areas, Screening, Topiary
Garden styles: Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern
The best lawn fertiliser in NZ with moss killer.

Lawn Fertiliser

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Achieve a vibrant, healthy lawn with our premium Lawn Fertiliser, specially formulated for New Zealand conditions. This fertiliser not only replenishes essential nutrients lost during mowing but also combats moss, ensuring your lawn remains lush and green. This fertiliser is the best product available in NZ and is used by the professionals.

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A large Metrosideros 'Maori Princess' trees in an avenue with masses of red flowers.
Metrosideros 'Maori Princess'

Metrosideros 'Maori Princess' is a stunning cultivar of the NZ Christmas tree (Pohutukawa) and is renowned for its brilliant crimson-red flowers and...

From$30.29
Metrosideros excelsa (Pohutukawa) specimen tree with masses of red flowers in a coastal location.
Metrosideros excelsa (Pōhutukawa)

Metrosideros excelsa, commonly known as Pōhutukawa or the New Zealand Christmas Tree, is a coastal evergreen renowned for its brilliant red flowers...

From$30.29
Pittosporum 'Irish Luck' plant for sale at The Plant Company nursery.
Pittosporum 'Irish Luck'

Pittosporum 'Irish Luck' is a hardy evergreen shrub known for its dense, bright green foliage and tidy growth habit. This versatile plant is well...

From$22.01
epipremnum-golden-queen-
Epipremnum 'Golden Queen'

Epipremnum 'Golden Queen' adds distinctive interest to NZ planting. This variety stands out for its vibrant colouring and adaptability to a wide...

From$33.05
A Kunzea robusta shrub with masses of pretty, white flowers.
Kunzea robusta

Kunzea robusta (White Tea Tree) is a fast growing NZ native tree known for its fine foliage and masses of small white flowers that attract bees and...

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10-litre-plant-pots-
10 Litre Thermoformed Plant Pots

These lightweight pots are a cost effective means for growing on plants. They feature a strong and broad rim, have been UV stabilised for NZ...

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Dysoxylum spectabile tree.
Dysoxylum spectabile (New Zealand Mahogany)

Dysoxylum spectabile, commonly known as Kohekohe, is a majestic NZ native tree admired for its glossy dark green leaves and clusters of fragrant...

From$323.65
Coprosma kirkii green foliage held on yellow stems.
Coprosma kirkii

Coprosma kirkii, commonly known as Creeping Coprosma, is a hardy NZ native groundcover shrub valued for its dense, trailing habit and small glossy...

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Coprosma kirkii 'Variegata' plants in pots.
Coprosma kirkii 'variegata'

Coprosma kirkii 'Variegata' is a hardy NZ native groundcover shrub admired for its trailing habit and attractive variegated foliage of green edged...

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Poa cita grass plants on a plateau overlooing the sea.
Poa cita

Poa cita, commonly known as Silver Tussock, is a clump-forming NZ native grass with delicate, green foliage that wafts gracefully in the breeze. It...

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hydrangea-macrophylla-blue-wave-2
Hydrangea 'Blue Wave'

Hydrangea 'Blue Wave' is a stunning lacecap hydrangea known for its vibrant blue flower centres surrounded by delicate outer florets. Flowering...

From$36.95
Ginkgo Ming Princess small tree.
Ginkgo 'Ming Princess'

Ginkgo 'Ming Princess' is a compact, ornamental form of the ancient ginkgo tree, valued for its fan shaped leaves and brilliant golden yellow autumn...

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Metrosideros 'Lighthouse' plant with red flowers and olive-green foliage.
Metrosideros 'Lighthouse'

Metrosideros 'Lighthouse' is a compact and hardy NZ native shrub renowned for its vibrant red flowers that burst into colour during summer. Its...

From$515.35
A Myrtus ugni (Chilean Guava) plant with small green leaves and red berries.
Myrtus ugni

Myrtus ugni (Chilean Guava, New Zealand Cranberry) is a compact evergreen shrub prized for its glossy foliage, delicate white flowers, and sweet...

From$12.95
Laurelia novae-zelandiae (Pukatea) trees for sale at The Plant Company.
Laurelia novae-zelandiae

Laurelia novae-zelandiae, commonly known as Pukatea, is a magnificent NZ native tree admired for its glossy green leaves, fluted trunk, and...

From$71.69
Libocedrus plumosa (Kawaka) tree with green-yellow foliage.
Libocedrus plumosa (Kawaka)

Libocedrus plumosa, commonly known as Kawaka, is a majestic NZ native conifer valued for its graceful, feathery foliage and elegant pyramidal form...

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Sophora longicarinata yellow flowers.
Sophora longicarinata (Limestone Kowhai)

Sophora longicarinata is a rare and beautiful NZ native tree belonging to the kowhai family. This evergreen to semi deciduous species is admired for...

From$323.65
strelitzia-reginae--3
Strelitzia reginae (Orange Bird Of Paradise)

Strelitzia reginae (Crane Flower, Bird Of Paradise) is an iconic tropical plant known for its bold orange and blue flowers that resemble a bird in...

From$39.95
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Strelitzia nicolai

Strelitzia nicolai (Giant White Bird Of Paradise) is a bold, architectural plant known for its large banana like leaves and striking white and blue...

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Fuchsia 'Patio Princess'

Fuchsia 'Patio Princess' is a compact, free flowering variety bred for containers and small garden spaces. It produces elegant pendant blooms in soft...

From$19.95
Syngonium White Butterfly plants with elegant green foliage.
Syngonium 'White Butterfly'

Syngonium 'White Butterfly' is a beautiful indoor plant admired for its creamy white leaves edged with soft green. It is a vigorous grower and brings...

From$38.57
plum-billington-
Plum 'Billington'

Plum 'Billington' adds distinctive interest to NZ planting. This medium sized plum tree grows 3-4 metres tall with a sturdy branching habit. It...

From$425.89
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Castanospermum australe (Moreton Bay Chestnut)

Castanospermum australe adds distinctive interest to NZ planting. It produces lush, green foilage off upright stems. Clusters of red, peal like...

From$152.64
Coprosma Poor Knights with lush green foliage.
Coprosma 'Poor Knights' (Taupata)

Coprosma 'Poor Knights' is a vibrant evergreen shrub valued for its glossy lime green foliage and compact rounded habit. This NZ native selection...

From$17.95
Libertia grandiflora plant with elegant white flowers and lush, dark green foliage.
Libertia grandiflora (NZ Iris)

Libertia grandiflora, commonly known as NZ Iris, is a hardy New Zealand native perennial admired for its elegant white flowers and sword like green...

From$16.50
A stunning Fuchsia 'Pacquesa' plant for sale at The Plant Company nursery.
Fuchsia 'Pacquesa'

Fuchsia 'Pacquesa' is a beautiful, free flowering shrub known for its elegant pendant blooms in soft pink and purple tones. This hardy plant thrives...

From$19.95
grape-steubens--1
Grape 'Steubens'

Grape 'Steubens' is a popular table grape known for its sweet, juicy red berries and reliable performance in NZ gardens. This vigorous vine produces...

From$29.95
rubus-pentalobus-2
Rubus pentalobus (Creeping Raspberry)

Rubus pentalobus is a hardy, low growing groundcover known for its attractive textured foliage, small white flowers, and bright red berries. This...

From$35.81
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Olive 'Frantoio'

Olive 'Frantoio' is a premium olive variety renowned for producing high quality oil with a rich, fruity flavour. This evergreen tree features...

From$270.40
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Grevillea 'Eureka'

Grevillea 'Eureka' adds distinctive interest to NZ planting. Its drought tolerance and ability to withstand coastal conditions ensure it remains a...

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Ligustrum 'Rotundifolium'

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Coprosma, Dysoxylum, and Epipremnum, or related Categories - Plant pots, Fertiliser, and Groundcover Plants.

Search nz privet

What is NZ Privet?

NZ privet commonly refers to several species in the Ligustrum genus, including Chinese privet and tree privet. These fast-growing evergreen or semi-evergreen shrubs are valued for their dense foliage, making them ideal choices for hedges and windbreaks. However, certain species have spread into the wild, where they can out-compete native plants. Understanding which varieties are suitable for gardens is important for responsible gardening in New Zealand.

Some of the most common privet species in New Zealand include:

Identifying NZ Privet in Your Garden

NZ privet plants are easy to identify, typically featuring glossy green leaves and, in spring, clusters of white to cream-coloured, fragrant flowers. These are followed by small, dark berries in late summer. Because some privets, particularly Ligustrum sinense (Chinese Privet) and Ligustrum lucidum (Tree Privet), can be invasive, it's crucial to manage them carefully. Always check council recommendations regarding the planting or removal of privet species in your area.

Alternatives to NZ Privet for Hedges

If you're after the privacy and structure that nz privet offers, but want a lower-maintenance or non-invasive option, several excellent alternatives are available. Ligustrum ovalifolium 'Aureum' provides vibrant golden-green foliage, giving a cheerful twist to traditional hedging, while Ligustrum Rotundifolium (Ligustrum japonicum) is valued for its rounded, glossy leaves and exceptional disease resistance.

For a smaller hedge or border, Lonicera pileata can be an attractive alternative. Its fine foliage and compact shape make it ideal for neat, low boundaries and adding texture to mixed plantings.

Growing and Maintaining Privet Hedges

NZ privet and its relatives are generally hardy, tolerating a range of soils and thriving in both full sun and partial shade. Regular trimming keeps hedges dense and well-shaped, and watering during dry spells will promote healthy, vigorous growth. Mulching around the base can help suppress weeds and retain soil moisture. If you're considering planting new hedges, remember to choose non-invasive cultivars whenever possible.

Summary

Choosing the right nz privet or an alternative can enhance the privacy, shelter, and structure of your New Zealand garden. Explore our selection of Ligustrum sinense (Chinese Privet), Ligustrum lucidum (Tree Privet), Ligustrum ovalifolium 'Aureum', Ligustrum Rotundifolium (Ligustrum japonicum), and Lonicera pileata for healthy, attractive hedging solutions suited to New Zealand conditions.

Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

Illustration of plant leaves.
While Lomandra 'Tanika' and Lomandra 'Frosty Tops' are household names, Ulmus 'Lobel' (Dutch Elm Tree), Plum 'Luisa', and Camellia 'Exquisite' are rising stars in the plant world.
–The Plant Company

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