Ligustrum japonicum

Ligustrum japonicum is toxic to cats, dogs and horses. The reported severity is critical. Also known as Wax-Leaf Ligustrum and Japanese Tree Lilac.

dogs cats horses

Mild Moderate Severe Critical

This plant is known to be potentially deadly!

  • If you're comfortable with the risk, ensure this plant is out of reach of your animal.
  • If you suspect your animal has ingested portions of this plant, immediately consult your veterinarian.
  • If your animal is experiencing any of the associated symptoms, immediately contact your veterinarian's emergency number for further instructions.

If your animal ate this plant, call your veterinarian, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control on (888) 426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline on (855) 764-7661. Fees may apply.

Symptoms to watch for

Diarrhea Vomiting Incoordination High Heart Rate Death Abdominal Pain

The color of each symptom follows the severity scale above.

About

Ligustrum japonicum, known as wax-leaf privet or Japanese privet is a species of Ligustrum (privet) native to central and southern Japan and Korea. It is widely cultivated in other regions, and is naturalized in California and in the southeastern United States from Texas to Virginia.

Common Names

  • Wax-Leaf Ligustrum
  • Japanese Tree Lilac

Also recorded as Japanese Privet, Japanese Wax-Leaved Privette, Japanese Wax-leaved Privet, Japanese wax-leaf privet and Wax-leaf privet.

Facts

Family
Oleaceae
Duration
Perennial
Growth habit
Shrub, Tree
In the wild
JP, KR, US, CN, TW, BR + more
Source
Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0
Elsewhere

Countries with the most wild observations, from GBIF data.