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The California Privet, Ligustrum ovalifolium, is a widely used deciduous shrub valued for its versatility and rapid growth. This shrub typically grows to a height of 6 to 10 feet (1.8 to 3 meters) and can spread to a width of 6 to 15 feet (1.8 to 4.5 meters). Its dense, bushy habit makes it an effective choice for hedges, screens, and green partitions in landscapes.

Shaping a California Privet hedge involves a straightforward process to achieve a neat and well-maintained appearance. Plant the shrubs with spacing according to your desired hedge width, generally 2 to 3 feet apart. As the plants grow, prune them annually to maintain the desired hedge height and shape. The best time for pruning is during the late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Use hedge trimmers or shears to trim the top and sides of the hedge, following a slight taper towards the top to ensure sunlight reaches the lower foliage. Keep the base slightly wider than the top to prevent shading. Regularly remove dead or diseased branches, ensuring proper airflow. After each pruning session, consider giving the hedge a light fertilization and water thoroughly. Regular maintenance will encourage dense growth and a polished appearance, transforming your California Privet into a well-defined and attractive hedge.

California Privet is well-suited for USDA hardiness zones 5 to 8. The oval-shaped, semi-evergreen leaves create a lush backdrop, and in late spring to early summer, the shrub produces small, white, fragrant flowers in clusters, followed by small black berries. It is known for its rapid growth rate, making it an excellent option for quickly establishing privacy or visual barriers. Its hardy nature, rapid growth, and ease of care make it a popular choice for residential and commercial landscapes, offering an effective solution for creating a green boundary or focal point.

California Privet is generally considered to have good deer resistance. While no plant is completely immune to deer browsing, California Privet's leathery leaves and slightly toxic compounds make it less palatable to deer. In areas with high deer populations, California Privet is often chosen for its ability to deter deer from feeding on it.