Lodense Privet

Lodense is a dwarf, dense cultivar of common privet, Ligustrum vulgare. Trees and Shrubs Online explains the name as “low and dense” and describes narrow, semi-persistent leaves. University of Illinois Extension identifies it as a compact form under 5 feet; the Royal Horticultural Society lists the cultivar as accepted. ## Form and landscape use This selection can be clipped into a low hedge or allowed to grow as a dense shrub. White flowers appear in late spring if the plant is not pruned, followed by black berries. Sun to light shade is suitable, and a 4–5-foot height and spread provide a practical upper-size guide; routine clipping can keep the outline smaller. Leaf retention can vary with winter conditions. ## Maintenance Water during establishment and in prolonged dry periods. Shear after flowering when maintaining a hedge, or remove only a few older branches to preserve a natural outline. [Trees and Shrubs Online](https://www.treesandshrubsonline.org/articles/ligustrum/ligustrum-vulgare/), [University of Illinois Extension](https://web.extension.illinois.edu/hortanswers/PlantDetail.cfm?PlantID=416&PlantTypeID=8), and [Campbell’s Nursery](https://www.campbellsnursery.com/product/landscape-plants/shrubs-and-roses/shrubs/privet-lodense/).