Ligustrum japonicum (Japanese Privet)

Native to eastern Asia, this evergreen shrub or small tree has dense, upright growth. Its opposite, leathery leaves are glossy dark green and have smooth margins. Small, creamy white, four-parted flowers form branching clusters toward the ends of stems, followed by berry-like fruits that ripen blue-black. It has become invasive in North Carolina, spreading beyond gardens into moist habitats. Birds eat its fruits and disperse the seeds. Its leaves and fruits are poisonous to people and pets if eaten. Photographed in Colombia.