Chinese Privet, an invasive, non-native shrub or small tree, is found in a variety of habitats at the Arboretum, including wetlands, upland forests, and disturbed areas. It is a native of Southeast Asia that was introduced into the US as an ornamental in the mid-1800s and has subsequently spread throughout the East and Southeast. Once established, it produces vigorous root sprouts and can outcompete native species, completely taking over an area. Its abundant dark blue fruit is eaten by birds and other wildlife, and the seeds are widely dispersed by them.

A member of the Olive Family (Oleaceae), Chinese Privet is semi-evergreen with opposite leaves, gray bark, and dense clusters of fragrant white flowers in the spring. At the Arboretum, it is especially conspicuous in forest edges along Arboretum Drive, Cemetery Ridge trail, and as scattered clumps along Scarborough Creek. It is difficult to control, as it rapidly sprouts back from roots and stumps when cut back. Its leaves have a high content of phenolic compounds that protect it from insects and other herbivores. The UT Forest Resources Center, in cooperation with UT faculty, is presently engaged in the testing of new herbicides to help eradicate privet and other invasive, non-native plants.

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