Differences Between a California Privet & a Wax Privet

Indentification

• The most obvious difference between the California privet, a deciduous shrub, and the waxleaf privet, a broadleaf evergreen, lies in the leaves. Both plants sport thick, green, ovate leaves, but the leaves of the California privet stick to a more strictly alternating pattern on the branch. These leaves feature a narrower and more pointed shape than the rounded leaves of the waxleaf, which have a shinier texture. The underside of the California privet's leaves have a yellow-green tint, but the waxleaf's undersides appear more whitish-green. While both plants sprout white flowers, the blossoms of waxleaf privet may have a creamier hue than those of the California variety.

Size

• Because privets are often used as hedges, screens or borders, size matters. California privets typically reach heights and spreads of 10 to 15 feet. Waxleaf privets, also known as Japanese privets, offer a more compact option with heights of 6 to 12 feet and spreads of 6 to 8 feet. However, the leaves and flowers of the waxleaf privet are each about 2 inches longer than the 2.5- and 4-inch leaves and flowers of the California privet.

Care and Growth Habits

• The California privet thrives in the mild climes of U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5 through 8, but the waxleaf privet enjoys the warmer temperatures of zones 8 through 10. When it comes to care and growth, these privets are more alike than different. While the flowers of the waxleaf tend to bloom a little later in the summer season than those of its California cousin, both varieties flourish in full sun or partial shade, grow in dry soils and heartily tolerate drought.

Further Comparison

• Although the California privet has no known edible uses, the roasted seeds of the waxleaf privet sometimes serve as a coffee substitute. Neither plant suffers from serious disease or insect issues, but they both tend to attract butterflies. Some cultivars of the California privet, such as Ligustrum ovalifolium “Aureum” and “Argentum,” feature golden or white leaf margins, making them easy to identify. Japonicum cultivars such as “Recurvifolium” and “Silver Star” feature distinct characteristics such as wavy leaf margins and gray-green mottling, respectively.