Ligustrum lucidum, or Glossy Privet, is distinguished by its evergreen foliage and elegant form. Native to China and regions of East Asia, this ornamental plant fits perfectly into botanical gardens, such as Au Bois Vert in Ivato, near Antananarivo. Under favorable conditions, it can reach up to 10 meters in height, offering a slender and graceful silhouette. Its oval, glossy, and leathery leaves display a dark green hue that brightens outdoor spaces all year round.
In summer, the Glossy Privet produces clusters of small, creamy-white flowers with a delicate fragrance, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. These flowers then turn into bluish-black berries that provide food for many bird species. This combination of aesthetic appeal and ecological value makes it a valuable asset for a botanical garden or landscaped area.
Ligustrum lucidum, or Glossy Privet, thrives in sunny or partially shaded environments and adapts to various soil types, as long as they are well-drained. Easy to grow, it is often used to create dense hedges or natural privacy screens thanks to its compact foliage. In a setting like the Lodge Au Bois Vert, the Glossy Privet can be used to define outdoor spaces, offering both privacy and aesthetic appeal.
This versatile plant is highly resistant to urban pollution, making it a smart choice for enhancing areas near urban hotels and restaurants. In the botanical garden of Ivato, it serves both as an educational plant and as a beautiful example of Asian biodiversity.
Plant use
The Glossy Privet stands out for its multiple uses in landscaping and forestry. In a botanical garden like Au Bois Vert, this plant helps structure spaces while adding a touch of lush greenery. Its aesthetic qualities make it ideal for creating formal or natural hedges, used as dividers in places such as hotels or lodges. In Ivato, near Antananarivo, it could notably line pathways or form green screens around outdoor areas. From an ecological perspective, the Glossy Privet plays a valuable role. Its nectar-producing flowers attract pollinators, promoting biodiversity in both botanical and urban gardens. The berries it produces at the end of the season also serve as food for birds, contributing to ecosystem balance. This ability to support biodiversity places it at the heart of sustainable landscaping practices. In China, its dense and durable wood is traditionally used to make tools or furniture. The leaves and fruits of Ligustrum lucidum are also part of Asian pharmacopeia due to their medicinal properties, although ornamental use remains predominant in the Western world. For tourism professionals, this plant is a true asset. Incorporated into the outdoor design of hotels, restaurants, or lodges like Au Bois Vert, it helps create a peaceful and sophisticated atmosphere. Its low maintenance requirements and longevity help minimize costs while maximizing visual impact.
Key information
| Common name | Glossy Privet |
| Scientific name | Ligustrum lucidum |
| Origin | China and East Asia |
| Natural habitat | Temperate and subtropical regions |
| Life cycle | Perennial |
| Flowering period | Summer |
