The golden privet ( Ligustrum x vicaryi ) , also known as the Vicary lucky privet , is a semi - evergreen bush that grows best in USDA Hardiness Zones 5 through 8 , withstanding wintertime temperatures no lower than minus 15 degree Fahrenheit . The shrub is evergreen only in the warmer part where winter temperatures stay above 35 degrees . Prized for its gilded leaves and spring clustered , ashen efflorescence , the golden privet grow up to 12 feet tall and 8 to 10 fundament wide at maturity . The golden privet produce into a rude vase - like configuration , with small berries emerge in the summer that draw in razz . Plant your aureate privet in full sun to enjoy the most vibrant halcyon leaf colour .
Step 1
Water your prosperous privet deeply once a week throughout the growing season to moisten the soil equally down to the root zone . Water the shrub more frequently during dry spells , droughts or severe summer heat .
Step 2
Feed your gilded privet shrub once each year in the natural spring , before young growth emerge . use a dumb - passing , all - purpose fertiliser and follow the dose instructions for flowering shrubs .
Step 3
disseminate a 2 - inch to 3 - inch layer of bark , shuck or leafage mulch on the ground around the base of the golden privet to control weeds and keep soil wet . Keep the mulch about 3 inches away from the trunk .
Step 4
Prune your gold privet in winter to remove any crowded , morbid or damaged growth . If you ’re growing golden privets in hedgerow form , you’re able to shear the shrub to determine them , make the top somewhat narrow than the bottoms to provide passable promiscuous exposure to all parting of the bush .
Tip
If you ’re acquire your golden privet as an individual plant and not a hedging or secrecy screen , no pruning is required to mold the bush . Be certain to allow plenty of space for the golden privet to grow , space it at least 6 to 8 foot away from other trees , shrubs , plants and structures .
Warning
nullify using the golden privet as a hedge or privateness screenland if you exist in a colder area , because in such areas the shrub is deciduous and will drop its leave-taking in the winter .