Ahh-choo!

Just about this time every spring, Mark will have a few sneezing fits!  Ahh Choo!  Ahh Choo!  The pollen count is exceedingly high here on the Bayou but there is one bush in particular that usually causes his sneezes!  I have always heard tell that this is called Privet, a type of Ligustrum.  Most folks will recognize Privet as a hedge-type bush but mine grows wild and free!  I did not intentionally plant the shrubs.  Several hurricanes deposited bushes in the yard from parts unknown.  With other debris being more pressing in the need to clear, bushes of any sort are of least concern.  Needless to say, these plants all took root and soon became part of the landscape.  Like I said, they are wild and free which in my way of thinking is the best!  They never need trimming!  With spring comes the Privet blossoms.  Another fine point that folks who hedge their shrubs never see!  Personally, I like the Privet blooms.  The creamy white flowers bloom in fine, triangular-shaped clusters and add a bit of interest to the lower part of the yard.  Once you leave the upper part of the hillside and the intense spicy-sweet smell of the Jasmine, the pungent smell of the Privet begins to take over your senses.  In its own way, the Privet competes with the Jasmine.  Their aromas are in sharp contrast with one another..but in a good way.  One makes you appreciate the other.

Privet is actually not a local plant.  It comes from Asia where a good many of the plants that have adapted so well to our environment originated.  The plant was brought in by landscapers years and years ago to be used in hedgerows.  Now..they are on the invasive species list and without careful tending can spread with wild abandon.  Another drawback to growing them is the fact that the fruit of the Privet is toxic to a certain extent to humans.  The leaves and stems, however, are used a good bit in herbal medicines.  (Birds and wildlife do not seem to be bothered by the fruit and will readily eat the black fruit.)  Then..there is the pollen!  Folks like Mark have problems with allergies to this fine shrub.  The pollen can cause bouts of sneezing or even severe respiratory irritations.  I am one of the fortunate ones that can appreciate the beauty of the bush without the aggravating side effects.  I do pity those with allergy problems..the pollen count is unbelievable!