Alien invasive plants: Privet

GEORGE NEWS - Alien invasive plants destroy biodiversity, the link between all organisms on earth that binds all into interdependent ecosystems.

Every month, George Herald is placing a photo of an alien invasive plant to create awareness about their impact on the environment and how we should deal with them.

In Janauary the focus falls on: Privet (Ligustrum spp)

It is an evergreen shrub or small tree of three to 10m high and has dark green, thick, leathery, glossy leaves; sometimes variegated in green and yellow.

Heavily scented white flowers appear in large terminal clusters from October to February and it has shiny black berries. It has poisonous fruits and leaves.

Invasive status: Listed as a Category 1b invasive weed and is a habitat transformer. It must be removed as it competes with and replaces indigenous species.

It is poisonous to some animals and humans. Indigenous birds could neglect the dispersal of indigenous seeds as a consequence of their preference for the fruits of this alien species.

Control: Plants must be cut down and the stumps treated with a suitable herbicide such as Imazapyr. Uproot young plants, especially in hedgerows. Regular follow-up is essential.

The shiny black berries of the privet are poisonous.