The following four native species are commonly found growing in the same places as Privet and are sometimes mistaken for Privet. Please ensure you are able to correctly identify Privet before attempting control or removal.

LillyPilly (Acmena Smithii) has an opposite leaf arrangement same as Privet. Features that differ include a thicker, glossy leathery leaf with a pointed tip.

Grey Myrtle (Backhousia myrtifolia) has opposite leaves which are dull, dark green with a leathery texture and a very pointed tip. The midrib is raised on both sides.

Native Violet (Hymenathera dentata) has leaves which are clustered around the stem and slightly toothed. Thorns are present along the stem and this distinguishes it from Privet which does not have thorns.

Little Breynia (Breynia oblongifolia) has leaves that are very similar in shape to Privet but the big difference is that Breynia has leaves arranged alternately along the stem. The leaves are very soft and velvety with a greyish-green colour. New stems are reddish.