Golden Vicary Privet
Ligustrum x vicaryi · Deciduous to semi-evergreen broadleaf shrub/small tree
Plant Family
Oleaceae
Tree Category
Ornamental Shrub or Small Accent Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Vicaryi
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 5 to 8, displaying good adaptability to various urban and suburban climates.
About This Tree
An upright, multi-stemmed deciduous shrub often pruned into a small tree form, featuring striking golden-yellow foliage that intensifies in full sun. It has a dense, bushy growth habit and moderate growth rate.
Leaf Characteristics
Opposite, simple, oval to elliptic leaves, 1 to 2.5 inches long, with entire margins. The color is a vibrant chartreuse to golden-yellow, holding its brightness well throughout the summer months.
Bark Characteristics
Smooth, grayish-brown bark on older stems, becoming slightly ridged with age; younger twigs are smooth and green-tinged.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Garden hybrid of European origin (Ligustrum ovalifolium x Ligustrum vulgare)
Growing Season
Spring through autumn, producing bright golden foliage that persists through summer, followed by inconspicuous white flowers in early summer and dark blue-black berries.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Requires full sun for optimal golden leaf color; can tolerate partial shade but foliage turns more chartreuse or green. Prefers medium moisture, well-drained soils, but has good drought tolerance once established.
Mature Size
Typically reaches 10 to 15 feet in height and 8 to 10 feet in spread when grown as a small tree or large shrub; moderate growth rate.
Special Characteristics
Valued primarily for its brilliant golden foliage that brightens landscape designs. Highly tolerant of urban pollution, heavy pruning, and shearing.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides nesting cover for small birds. The small flowers attract pollinators, and birds consume the dark berries in late autumn and winter.