Moderate water needs. Water deeply, then allow the upper few inches of soil to dry. Irrigate more frequently during extreme summer heat; container plants require closer monitoring.
A dense Japanese privet cultivar with glossy, leathery leaves, offered in a #7 nursery container as a two-ball poodle topiary. Regular trimming maintains its sculpted form.
Berries/foliage toxic to pets & humans if ingested
Care Instructions
Light: Full sun to partial shade; afternoon shade is beneficial in Phoenix, especially near heat-reflecting walls or pavement.
Water: Moderate water needs. Water deeply, then allow the upper few inches of soil to dry. Irrigate more frequently during extreme summer heat; container plants require closer monitoring.
Soil: Well-drained soil enriched with compost. Tolerates varied soils, but alkaline conditions may cause iron chlorosis. Avoid persistently wet roots.
Mature size: Naturally about 6–10 feet tall and 4–6 feet wide. Maintained topiary dimensions depend on the initial training height and pruning.
Bloom: Creamy-white flower clusters in late spring to early summer; frequent topiary trimming reduces or eliminates flowering.
Evergreen / deciduous: Evergreen.
Growth rate: Moderate; faster with adequate irrigation and favorable growing conditions.