Ligustrum japonicum

Could just as easily be one of the other evergreen species. L. lucidum is very prevalent in the southeast.

Actually it couldn't, among familiar kinds only L. japonicum looks like the plants shown. That includes L. lucidum, which despite the recurring confusion with L. japonicum is actually quite different in aspect. Due to its different habit, leaves and inflorescences.

Oh for heaven's sake, lighten up!! The two species are very closely related and almost indistinguishable from each other except for sizing. And since there is no way to determine an accurate scale based on the photos, that's a bit of a guess. The sure way to determine between the two is to examine the reverse of the leaves.....L. japonicum has raised venation; L lucidum has sunken venation and fewer veins.

And they can also be used interchangeably in the landscape.

Thank you all!! After looking at many L. Japonicum's pictures, it should be it!