Delavay privet (Ligustrum delavayanum)
Care, watering, light and tips for Delavay privet on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Oleaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Delavay privet
Ligustrum delavayanum, also known as "zi yao nu zhen" or Delavay privet, is a dense, compact evergreen shrub, ideal for low hedges, borders, or as a potted specimen. Its small, glossy dark green oval leaves give it an elegant and neat appearance. In spring, it produces small, fragrant white flowers, followed by black berries that attract wildlife.
Native range
China
Care tips
It prefers full sun to partial shade and tolerates a wide range of soils, as long as they are well-drained. Watering should be regular, keeping the substrate slightly moist, especially in warm climates and during flowering. It is a drought-tolerant plant once established. Avoid waterlogging, as it can lead to root rot.
How to save a dying Delavay privet
- Warning signs
- Wilting or yellowing leaves dropping, lack of growth, dry or brittle branches.
- First aid
- Check soil moisture. If dry, water deeply. If waterlogged, aerate and drain. Move away from cold drafts.
- What kills it
- Overwatering causing root rot or extreme lack of water, especially in pots. Insufficient light.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't completely rotted and green shoots remain. Act quickly.