Should the old leaves on a golden privet (which did not drop off during winter ) be removed?

Question

New buds and small bright green leaves are forming above and below the large old leaves. But the old leaves are basically dark, with only partial green. Plus of course they are much larger at this point in time.

Answer 1

Ligustrum x vicaryi or Golden Privet has become an extremely popular plant because of its golden yellow foliage. It is a deciduous shrub in northern zones and semi-evergreen in warmer zones, where the leaves often survive winter in the south.

I suggest just letting it be for now. If the leaves are truly dead, they will fall off in time when the plant is ready.

For maintenance purposes, trim them a couple times during the year to maintain uniformity if using for a hedge. They can be cut back hard if fed, watered and mulched. They are hardy in Zones 5-7, grow in any soil, and prefer full sun or light shade.

Answer 2

sounds like you are unhappy with the way things look.
Sure go ahead and clip them off how would it hurt? they are dead.