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Weed of the Month - Privet

Ligustrum sinense Lour.  and  L. lucidum W.T.Ait  (Family: Oleaceae)

There are two types of Privet in this region: a small leaf species and a broad leaf species. Both are introduced plants originating from China and Japan. Introduced as ornamental garden plants, they have adapted to our climate and spread into our native bushland areas and vacant allotments.
Privet can grow into large shrubs up to 4 metres high, and form almost huge thickets along creeks and bushland near roadsides. Both types produce masses of white flowers in early spring, and the perfume and pollen is very strong. Because of their glossy green leaves and the fact they are so hardy you will often see them in gardens where the small leaved variety is used as hedges and the large leafed for screening or as a small tree.

Problem:
As mentioned the perfume is very strong and it is believed to be responsible for triggering allergic reaction in susceptible people. In the region many people suffer from hay fever during Privets flowering season

Vectors:
The flowers are followed by attractive hanging bunches of black berries, which birds eat, helping spread the species.

Physical control:
Removal can be effective if care is taken to remove all roots (plants will regrow from rootstock). After removal of mature plants, it is common to have seed germination from the seeds that have fallen under the shrubs.

Herbicide control:
Both regrowth and new seedlings can be killed using foliar application For larg plants the cut and treat stump method is preferred. Contact your local weed officer for details on how to control this weed. A number of herbicides are registered for control and remember to always read the label carefully and use only as directed.