Curved-Leaf Privet

About this plant

The Curved-Leaf Privet, or Ligustrum japonicum 'Recurvifolium', is a highly prized evergreen shrub at A Cut Above, celebrated for its unique aesthetic and robust nature. Its glossy, dark green leaves famously curve inwards, creating a dense, textural display that adds depth and year-round interest to any garden setting. Ideal for creating elegant hedges, privacy screens, or as a striking specimen plant, this privet offers excellent versatility. In late spring to early summer, it produces clusters of fragrant white flowers, followed by small, ornamental blue-black berries that attract birds. Hardy and adaptable, the Curved-Leaf Privet thrives in a variety of conditions, making it a reliable choice for both seasoned gardeners and those new to horticulture. Its refined appearance and low maintenance requirements ensure it remains a stellar foundation plant or an impressive standalone feature.

Installation timing

When we're in season, outside of the winter months, our goal is to get your plants installed within about two weeks. That window gives us enough time to secure your plants from our supplier and find a spot on the schedule. Throughout the process we stay in touch through notifications and your existing client portal on the main A Cut Above website, which is separate from this landscaping plants shop.

Care & maintenance

Easily maintained, the Curved-Leaf Privet benefits from annual pruning to maintain its desired shape and density. Prune after flowering to encourage vigorous new growth. Fertilize in early spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer. While generally disease-resistant, monitor for common shrub pests and treat as needed.

Watering suggestions

Proper watering is the single most important factor in your plant's survival after installation. Newly installed plants have a limited root system and rely on you for consistent moisture while they establish.

• First 2 weeks: Water deeply every day (or every other day in cooler, wet weather), soaking the root ball and surrounding soil.
• Weeks 3–12: Water deeply 2–3 times per week, adjusting for rain, heat, and soil drainage.
• After establishment: Water deeply about once a week during the growing season, and more often in extreme heat or drought.
• How to check: Stick a finger 2–3 inches into the soil near the roots — if it's dry, it's time to water. Deep, less-frequent watering encourages strong roots; shallow daily sprinkles do not.
• Avoid: Overwatering (soggy, waterlogged soil) is just as harmful as underwatering and can drown roots.

Watering needs vary by plant, season, soil, and exposure. Because proper watering is the customer's responsibility after installation, please make sure you understand and can follow these suggestions before ordering.

Good to know: plants and trees purchased from and installed by A Cut Above include a one-year limited warranty from the date of installation. Because plant survival depends heavily on proper watering and care after installation, losses caused by improper care, neglect, animal or chemical damage, or extreme weather are not covered, and we must be given the chance to inspect a struggling plant before it's removed or replaced. Coverage is one replacement per plant. Read our warranty info.