Dwarf Curly Leaf Japanese Privet

Characteristics

• The dwarf curly leaf Japanese privet is a cultivated variety that grows only about 3 to 5 feet tall, instead of 10 feet tall like its relative, the native Japanese privet. An evergreen plant, it has interesting, contorted leaves that are thick and leathery, and tend to twist or wrap around its stems. In late spring, it produces fragrant, creamy-white flowers in pyramid-shaped clusters, followed by rounded black fruits that stay on the plant into winter. The flowers attract butterflies.

Sun and Soil

• Dwarf curly leaf Japanese privet can adapt to different light conditions, doing well in full sun or partial shade. In areas with hot summer sun where day-long full sun might scorch its leaves, it prefers a spot that gets morning sun, followed by light, shifting shade in the afternoon. The plant also tolerates any type of garden soil, but doesn't do well in a poorly drained spot that tends to stay wet for long periods after a rain. If your soil is high in clay and drains slowly, add some sand at planting to improve its drainage.

Other Care

• The dwarf curly leaf Japanese privet needs regular water during its first season or two to promote the development of a deep and extensive root system. Once established, it tolerates dry spells well, but might slow its growth during these periods. Feeding a young plant each spring before new growth appears can also help give it a good start. Use a balanced, 10-10-10 formula diluted at a rate of 1/4 teaspoon per 1 gallon of water, but check the package label for additional directions. This plant develops a naturally pleasing, rounded form and doesn't require pruning, but you can shear it lightly immediately after flowering to promote dense branching, or cut back branches by about one-third to help keep the plant compact.

Problems

• The dwarf curly leaf Japanese privet has no serous disease or pest problems, although it can develop fungal disorders when grown in constantly moist conditions. These are best controlled by planting it in a site with good air circulation, clearing debris from under the plant regularly and watering only with a soaker hose or drip irrigation to help keep its leaves dry. Aphids, leaf miners or other soft-bodied insects can become a problem and are best controlled by spraying the plant thoroughly with a ready-to-use insecticidal soap.