Syrian Privet

Fontanesia phillyreioides

$23.00

1 Gallon | Hardiness Zones 4-8

Fontanesia is a deciduous shrub with narrow lanceolate opposite leaves which are several inches in length. It in the olive family, related to privet, and apparently likewise tolerant of conditions. It seems questionable as to whether the plant native in the Middle East and the one in China represent one or two species. The former has been called Fontanesia phyllyreioides and the latter Fontanesia fortunei. These being offered were labeled as the former at Armstrong Atlantic State University in Savannah, GA. Supposedly this is a smaller growing shrub. One in our Citywide Arboretum here in Aiken, South Carolina as Fontanesia fortunei is over 20 feet tall and with stems 6 inches in diameter.
Plant Specs
  • Zones: 4 - 8
  • Sun: Full Sun and Part Shade
  • Soil: Well-drained
  • Height at Maturity: 4 - 8 feet
  • Spread at Maturity: 3 - 5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate

Deciduous
Flower/Foliage

Foliage: The leaves are lanceolate and glossy, providing an attractive, year-round display.

Flowers: Small, yellow-green flowers appear in late spring to early summer, followed by inconspicuous fruits.

Small and inconspicuous
Care Info

Read full care instruction manual here.

Light Requirements: Prefers full sun to partial shade. Fontanesia thrives best when exposed to at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily. In areas with hot summers, providing some afternoon shade can help prevent leaf scorch.

Soil Requirements: Thrives in well-draining soil. This plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.0. It is adaptable to various soil types, including loamy, sandy, and slightly clayey soils, as long as they are well-draining. Incorporating organic matter such as compost can improve soil fertility and structure.

Watering: Requires moderate watering. Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the growing season, but avoid waterlogging. Once established, Fontanesia phillyreioides is somewhat drought-tolerant but performs best with regular watering during dry periods.

Temperature and Humidity: Hardy in USDA zones 4-8. Fontanesia prefers moderate climates and can tolerate a range of temperatures. It is frost-hardy and can withstand cold winters. It also tolerates a range of humidity levels, making it suitable for both temperate and subtropical regions.

Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support healthy growth. An additional application of fertilizer in mid-summer can help sustain growth through the season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowering.

Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged branches and to shape the plant. Light pruning encourages bushier growth and helps maintain a neat appearance. Fontanesia can tolerate more extensive pruning if needed, but it's generally best to prune lightly and regularly.

Pests and Problems: Generally pest-resistant, but can occasionally be affected by aphids or spider mites. Ensure good air circulation around the plant to prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew. If pests are detected, treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Regular inspections help catch problems early.

Pickup available at Aiken Nursery

Usually ready in 2-4 days

Grown in Aiken, South Carolina

At Woodlanders, we are committed to quality.

All our plant material is carefully propagated, grown, and nurtured at our humble nursery in Aiken, South Carolina.

Learn more about Woodlanders here.

Here’s a closer look at how we produce our plants:
from rooting to shipping, our top priority is ensuring you receive healthy, thriving plants for your garden’s success.

The majority of our plants are carefully cultivated from rooted cuttings, while we also utilize propagation methods such as seed, air layering, and grafting, thoughtfully chosen to suit each plant’s unique needs.

Our plants are cultivated using sustainable practices, including organic soil blends and eco-friendly pest management, ensuring they thrive while minimizing environmental impact.

We are proud to contribute to local biodiversity through ongoing donations to the Aiken Arboretum and support for local wildlife conservation efforts, helping to preserve and enhance our community’s natural ecosystems.

Plant Success Tip #1

Unpack Promptly

Carefully unpack your plant as soon as it arrives. Check the roots and soil to ensure they are still moist. If the roots feel dry, lightly mist or water them before proceeding with planting or temporary storage.

Plant Success Tip #2

Acclimate Your Plant

Allow your plant to adjust to its new environment by placing it in a sheltered spot for a day or two before planting, especially if it has traveled a long distance. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures right away.

Plant Success Tip #3

Follow Planting and Care Instructions

Plant your new arrival as soon as possible, following the specific care guidelines provided. If planting outdoors isn’t immediately possible, temporarily pot it in well-draining soil to maintain health until conditions are suitable.

Read Care Instructions

Frequently Asked Questions

What to expect upon delivery

All our plants are sold in 1-gallon sizes, though the height of each plant can vary depending on its growth rate and seasonality, typically ranging from 1/2 to 2.5 feet.

Each plant is carefully packaged with its roots enclosed in a secure plastic bag containing moist soil, forming a compact root ball. To ensure safe transport, the box is padded with recycled newspaper, providing both stability and eco-friendly protection from weather during shipping.
What is your return policy?

Review our full return policy information on our SHIPPING AND RETURNS POLICY page.
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At Woodlanders, we strive to fulfill orders as quickly as possible. Therefore, we can only accommodate changes to your order within the first 24 hours after it has been placed. These changes include adding or removing products and modifying the delivery address. If you need to make any changes or if there has been a mistake with your order information, please reach out to us promptly via our CONTACT page with your order number for the quickest resolution.

Your satisfaction is our priority, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation.