Poisonous hedge?

Question

I am interested in using the "north privet" hedge for a privacy fence i live in zone 5. ive read that it is poisonous but id like to know what part of it is poisonous? Is it not recommended with children or pets? also can anyone recommend a fast growing evergreen that might be pruneable ?

Answer 1

I'm not sure about the privet. I never heard that, but a great, fast growing evergreen is the leyland cypress, and it can be pruned.

Answer 2

Poisonous Plants for Cats, Dogs, Humans

Privet Hedges (Ligustrum)

Ingesting any part of these poisonous plants may cause stomach ache, vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, or headache. Eating the berries of privet shrubs may even cause death.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Arborvitae

A slim tree of medium height, 'Emerald Green' arborvitae is often planted in a row -- as a decorative border planting, wind screen or privacy screen. Because it is evergreen, its usefulness in any of these capacities extends throughout the year in the North. Occasionally, the tree is also used as a specimen.

Its cold hardiness makes 'Emerald Green' arborvitae a solid choice for Northern landscapers, who might otherwise use Leyland cypress, a favorite in zone 6 and higher. 'Emerald Green' arborvitae would also be the choice over Leyland cypress in cases where a tall tree would be inappropriate. Whereas the latter reaches at least 60' at maturity, 'Emerald Green' arborvitae usually reaches just 12'-14'. These differences notwithstanding, the two trees have a similar look and are both popular, particularly as "living wall" privacy screens.

I think this may be the perfect choice. I might give them a try myself.