shrub

Howard's Ligustrum

Ligustrum japonicum 'Howardi'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

96 inches

Width

72 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Low to medium

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Long-lived shrub

Native To

Japan, Korea

Toxicity

All parts, especially berries, are toxic if ingested.

The Story

Plant Bio

A fast-growing, dense broadleaf evergreen shrub often used for hedges and privacy screens. It is known for its toughness and adaptability to a wide range of conditions. 'Howardi' is a striking variegated form where new leaves emerge a brilliant golden-yellow, gradually fading to chartreuse and then green with age. This creates a vibrant, multi-toned effect on a single plant.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

The brilliant golden new growth of 'Howardi' provides a stunning, year-round color contrast in the landscape. It can be maintained as a formal hedge or allowed to grow into a large, colorful specimen shrub.

Its fast growth rate and dense habit make it one of the most popular choices for creating a quick privacy screen or hedge. It is also extremely tolerant of pruning and can be shaped easily.

The fragrant white flowers are attractive to bees and other pollinators. The dark berries that follow provide a food source for birds in the fall and winter.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Choose a location in full sun for best foliage color.
This plant is highly adaptable to almost any well-drained soil.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball.
Set the plant in the hole at the same depth it was in the pot.
Backfill with soil, tamp lightly, and water thoroughly.
Space plants 4-5 feet apart for a dense hedge.

Pro Tip

For the most vibrant yellow color, plant in full sun. In shadier spots, the foliage will be more chartreuse to green.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Prune regularly after flowering to maintain a tidy hedge.
Water deeply during establishment and extended dry periods.
Plant in full sun to maximize the golden foliage color.
Use as a tough, fast-growing screen for quick privacy.

Don't

Do not plant where its berries can be ingested by children or pets.
Avoid planting in soggy, poorly drained locations.
Be aware that some Ligustrum species can be invasive in certain regions; check local restrictions.
Don't hesitate to prune hard to rejuvenate an old, overgrown plant.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Bright and colorful privacy hedgeVibrant specimen to light up the gardenTough, fast-growing screen

Companion Plants

Loropetalum chinense 'Ruby' Abelia 'Rose Creek' Nandina domestica Canna lily Juniperus virginiana

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Howard's Ligustrum questions

What zones can Howard's Ligustrum grow in?

Howard's Ligustrum is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Howard's Ligustrum deer resistant?

Yes — Howard's Ligustrum is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Howard's Ligustrum bloom?

Howard's Ligustrum typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Howard's Ligustrum need full sun?

Howard's Ligustrum does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Howard's Ligustrum drought tolerant?

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