Common (or Wild) Privet is a semi evergreen or deciduous shrub with dark green, lance shaped leaves and white flowers, followed by black berries.
 
Description 
A bushy semi evergreen or deciduous shrub, most commonly seen in hedgerows and woodlands in southern England and Wales, this is the only privet native to the British Isles. It grows to approximately 3m tall, (rarely up to 5m). 
 
Planting Position 
Suitable for most locations and soil types. Can handle exposed sites and is extremely hardy. Best grown in chalky soil and in full sun or part shade.
 
Size 
Growth Rate: Fast 
Final Height: 3-5m 
Final Spread: 4-5m
 
Foliage and Flowers 
The leaves are arranged along the stem in pairs, each pair at right angles, they are dark green. The white flowers are produced in mid summer in panicles. The flowers produce a strong, pungent fragrance that many people find unpleasant. The fruits are small glossy black berries, which are poisonous to humans, but are readily eaten by birds. The shoots and leaves are poisonous, Privet should be kept away from livestock.
 
Plant Interest 
The berries are readily eaten by thrushes and then the seeds are dispersed via their droppings.
 
Landscape Use 
Predominantly used as hedging in the UK, or can be used as an ornamental shrub. When used as a hedging plant, it needs to be trimmed several times during a growing season, a regularly trimmed plant will not produce flowers or fruit.
 
Uses
Ligustrum vulgare is a common hedging plant in the UK.