What kind of tree is this?

10 years ago

Need help identifying this tree/bush/thing.
I've been trying to ID it, and thought it might be some sort of dogwood, but it's rather large. It reaches up all the way to the second story windows, and another that reaches probably about 3/4 of the way up a power line pole, if that gives you an idea of how tall they are. It could just be really overgrown, though...I don't know. I'd like to know what it is so I know what to do with it...if it should be regularly trimmed, etc.

Here's a close-up of the leaves. Small leaves, variegated, with creamy edges. This picture was taken in late April, but it still has its leaves and color this time of year.

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Comments (6)

ninjapixie
Original Author
10 years ago
And here's a picture of the whole thing.
saltcedar
10 years ago
Ligustrum sinense 'Variegatum'
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ninjapixie
Original Author
10 years ago
Hmmm...the description seems to match for the most part, except for one thing. Ligustrum sinense 'Variegatum' is described as having dense foliage, whereas mine seems to be more on the sparse side. Could this be due to mine not being trimmed regularly (which would also explain why it is so large)? I have a feeling it was probably planted about 15 years ago, and barely touched since.
SusanC
10 years ago
I think it may be Ligustrum japonicum variegatum.

Here is a link that might be useful: Variegated Ligustrum japonicum 'Jack Frost'
saltcedar
10 years ago
Your L. sinensis is defoliated because it's at the far Northern edge of it's hardiness range (and colder than average Winter). Pruning will increase it's density as will more sunny sites. Note the branch that's solid green. It can overtake the variegated portions unless pruned out. L. japonicum has brittle waxy leaves, your privet has much more flexible foliage.
Embothrium
10 years ago
Diffuse habit typical.