New Mexican Privet

New Mexican Privet, Desert Olive (Forestiera neomexicana)

		*New Mexican Privet (Forestiera neomexicana), or Desert Olive,* is a multi-stemmed shrub that is fast-growing and can be used for screening, clipped as a hedge, or pruned as a small tree. A native to Colorado, it is hardy to zone 4. Desert Olive prefers full sun and will tolerate a wide range of soils. It grows 8 to 15 feet in height.

		Foliage consists of smooth, bright green leaves that turn yellow in fall. They contrast well with the white bark and when grown as a small tree, New Mexican privet can be substituted for aspen.

		Flowers are small, yellow, and appear in spring before the shrub leafs out.

		Fruit consists of blue berries that are popular with birds.

		Bark is attractive, smooth and white.

Photos: Judy Sedbrook

New Mexican Privet, Desert Olive (Forestiera neomexicana)