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Flower

Form/flower

Oleaceae

Swamp privet is the only one of our native Forestieras that will not adapt to dry, poor soil. It grows in swamps, lake margins and bottomlands from East and Southeast Texas north into Missouri and Illinois. It is a spreading shrub or small tree that can grow to 30 feet high. Its flowers are dioecious (male and female borne on separate plants); female flowers appear in early spring before the leaves. They are an important early source of nectar for bees, and the fruits are eaten by a number of birds, especially waterfowl.

Plant Habit or Use: medium shrub
large shrub
small tree

Exposure: partial sun
shade

Flower Color: yellowish green

Blooming Period: spring

Fruit Characteristics: purplish oblong drupe

Height: to 30 feet

Width: to 30 feet

Plant Character: deciduous

Heat Tolerance: medium

Water Requirements:

Soil Requirements:

USDA Hardiness Zone: 6

Additional Comments: