Species

Ligustrum sinenseVariegated Chinese Privet

1 other cultivar

‘Variegatum’Variegated Chinese Privet

shrub

Sunshine Privet

Ligustrum sinense 'Sunshine'

$19.99

The Story

Plant Bio

Ligustrum sinense, native to East Asia, is a vigorous semi-evergreen to evergreen shrub known for its dense, fine-textured branching habit. While the wild species naturalizes aggressively in disturbed woodlands and riparian zones, it adapts readily to a wide range of well-drained soils.

'Sunshine' is a sterile, non-invasive selection that produces no flowers, pollen, or fruit, eliminating the risk of self-seeding. Its small, glossy leaves maintain a vivid golden-yellow to chartreuse coloration throughout the year when grown in full sun.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides year-round, high-contrast golden-yellow to chartreuse foliage that brightens mixed borders and foundation plantings.

Functions as a highly adaptable, low-maintenance hedge or accent shrub that tolerates heat, humidity, and moderate drought.

Offers sterile, non-invasive growth that eliminates the risk of self-seeding into native woodlands.

SpeciesLigustrum sinenseVariegated Chinese Privet

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

71"

Width

59"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

China, Taiwan, East Asia

Toxicity

Sap may cause mild skin irritation

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Plants By Mail

1+ Gal Pot

In Stock$19.99

PlantingTree

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Fast Growing Trees

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Garden Goods Direct

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Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily to ensure vibrant foliage color.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and level with the soil line to prevent water pooling around the crown.
Backfill with native soil mixed with organic matter, tamping down gently to eliminate air pockets.
Water deeply at the base immediately after planting, maintaining consistent moisture until the root system is established.

Pro Tip

Plant in full sun to prevent the foliage from reverting to a dull lime-green, and avoid heavy shearing late in the summer to prevent winter dieback on tender new growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Grow in full sun to maintain the bright golden-yellow foliage.
Ensure the soil drains rapidly to prevent root rot.
Prune selectively in spring to shape the shrub and stimulate fresh golden growth.

Don't

Do not plant in wet, low-lying areas where water collects.
Do not shear heavily in late summer, as new flushes are susceptible to early frost damage.
Do not plant in heavy shade, which causes the foliage to fade to a muddy green.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Prune
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

HedgeAccent plantingMass plantingFoundation planting

Companion Plants

Loropetalum chinense Ilex vomitoria Salvia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Sunshine Privet questions

What zones can Sunshine Privet grow in?

Sunshine Privet is hardy in USDA Zones 6–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Sunshine Privet deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Sunshine Privet, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

Does Sunshine Privet need full sun?

Sunshine Privet does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Sunshine Privet drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Sunshine Privet handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.