Glossy Privet

The glossy privet (Ligustrum lucidum) is native to China, Japan, and Korea. An escaped ornamental plant, it has now spread throughout the U.S. Although this plant is considered an invasive species in California, when the glossy privet blooms between June and September, the strong fragrance of the flowers attracts butterflies like the western tiger swallowtail. Although this plant is not toxic for humans, it is toxic for pets like dogs and cats.