Lilly Pilly Information For Trees & Hedges

Landscaping With Lilly Pilly’s

These short articles provide some insight into how you might use Lilly Pilly plants in different situations and what you might pair them with.

Design Ideas For Lilly Pilly’s

Lilly Pilly's owe their popularity to not just their colourful aesthetics, but also to their versatility. They are commonly planted as formal and informal hedges, used as backdrops for smaller plants, planted as a screen, or grown as a specimen. They are well suited to planting around living areas, pool, and barbecue areas where they provide a fresh and luxurious appeal. The lush foliage is fantastic for providing a hint of the tropics and adding both depth, texture, and colour to a planting. They can be included in most garden styles with ease and make for an exciting addition. Explore The Plant Company’s range of Lilly Pilly varieties to find the one that will suit your design needs!

Plants To Grow With Lilly Pilly’s

A wide range of plants can be grown with Lilly Pilly's. When used for hedging The Plant Company often recommends using grasses or dwarf flaxes to bring in different colours and textures. Some popular flax options include Jack Spratt, Yellow Wave, and Dark Delight, while grass options include Feather Falls, Carex testacea, and Frosted Curls. Where a tropical flair is desired, Ligularias and Colocasia are often used.

Trailing plants such as Lysimachia, Dichondra, or Cerastium are often used for Lilly Pilly's grown in a pot. They bring colour and a complementary style, though the colour of the pot is often the determining factor for which plant is chosen. Where Lilly Pilly's are included in a mixed planting, we will still use the aforementioned plants but now mix it up with Abelias, Carpet Roses, Hebes, Pseudopanax, and Coprosmas. The choices here depend on the style, textures, and colour palette desired.

The good thing about Lilly Pilly’s is that they are versatile and blend easily with most plant colours and textures in a subtle and non-overpowering manner. A key consideration with any of these pairings, however, is how big you will let the Lilly Pilly grow to. A big shrub can quickly dwarf the plants around it and start to suffocate them. Therefore, The Plant Company suggests first determining the ultimate size you want the Lilly Pilly, then make plant choices that keep the proportions appropriate for the intended use.

Lilly Pilly Care

Caring for Lilly Pilly’s is about making sure the plants are thriving. Our plant care articles provide the necessary details to give you the greatest chance of success. Afterall, there is nothing worse than putting the effort into planting for them to fail or look terrible. Therefore, follow our advice for Lilly Pilly care and give yourself the best chance of success.

How To Care For Lilly Pilly’s

The most important part starts with planting and our article, How To Plant A Lilly Pilly, provides sound advice on how to do this properly. So, let’s now assume your plant is growing well and you want to keep it that way!

Winter is the perfect time for mulching and trimming your plants. Trimming can be aggressive or subtle as you like. Typically, plants are trimmed to contain growth and encourage fresh, new foliage. Lilly Pilly’s will sprout away again no matter how hard they are cut back and provided the stem is healthy. Organic matter such as compost or sheep pellets should be spread liberally around the plants and then overlaid with a mulch during winter. The Plant Company has three very good options for mulch. The first is coco fibre matting which is made from the husks of coconuts. The second is Earth Mat which is made from recycled paper. Both of these break down to become part of the soil within two years. The third is black plastic matting which will last 20 years or more. Whichever mulch is used, The Plant Company recommend stones, bark chip, or other similar products be spread over top for aesthetic purposes. The Plant Company does not recommend adding fertiliser during winter as this is better applied in spring so less is wasted. However, adding organic matter such as compost is quite okay.

Spring is the perfect time for fertilising the plants as they start to bounce into life. The Plant Company has fertilisers which have been specially blended for different plants and in this instance, our shrub fertiliser will give them the correct boost and keep them fed for 12-months. A suitable alternative is our organic fertiliser which will also keep them well fed but they will require a secondary application in autumn.

Summer is when the plants need regular watering and this should be undertaken every second day on the hottest days. Plants that are establishing need particular attention as their root system will not have penetrated deep enough to secure consistent moisture yet.

Caring for Lilly Pilly’s in autumn is about keeping the plants healthy. Foliar feeding using a liquid fertiliser can be undertaken during spring, summer, and autumn if you have time but this is not essential if solid fertiliser and/or good amounts of organic matter have already been applied. If you think the plants need an extra boost or have some yellowing, however, a liquid fertiliser won’t hurt.

Plants should be checked for pest or disease issues during spring, summer, and autumn. If anything is looking a little bit unusual, refer to our articles under Lilly Pilly Issues And Troubleshooting.

When To Water Lilly Pilly’s?

Lilly Pilly’s are lush plants and the foliage requires good soil moisture during dry periods to stay fresh and keep growing actively. The Plant Company recommends a generous watering every second day during summer, or every third day if the soil is a bit heavier. If the young stems start to droop, you need to water immediately. The Plant Company advises watering in the morning or in the evening for water conservation purposes. Please be sure to read about Lilly Pilly Diseases, as over-watering can have unintended consequences!

Even though Lilly Pilly’s are tolerant of short periods of dry they will still benefit from being watered. During those dry periods the plants will stop growing to preserve themselves and may even start to defoliate. In severe cases, the leaves will turn brown and crispy which means the plant is close to death, if not already dead. This is clearly not desirable if you are still wanting them to grow! They will start growing again once rain or water is provided on the proviso the plant is still alive. If they have become very dry and the leaves have turned brown but still have a little bit of colour, you may still be able to revive the plant. The Plant Company recommends that small plants are cut back to 10 cm above the ground or back to a trunk for larger plants. Keep watering them and you may find they sprout again.

Lilly Pilly Fertiliser

Providing the best fertiliser for Lilly Pilly’s is important to ensure the plants thrive. The correct fertiliser depends on whether the plant is grown in a pot or in soil, and getting this wrong can be disastrous for your plants. Our articles provide the best advice about Lilly Pilly fertiliser so you can achieve the amazing results you are after.

What Is The Best Fertiliser For Lilly Pilly’s Grown In A Pot?

Lilly Pilly’s grown in containers require different fertiliser to those grown outdoors in soil. In this instance the correct fertilisers to use are either the container plant fertiliser or fertiliser tablets. Each of these will provide safe, sustained, and complete nutrition to the plant for the next 12-months. Using other types of fertiliser can be detrimental to the plant and may result in plant injury or death.

Foliar feeding using a liquid fertiliser can be undertaken if you have time but this is not essential if container plant fertiliser or fertiliser tablets have been used. If you think the plant needs an extra boost or has some yellowing, however, a liquid fertiliser application won’t hurt. A great benefit of foliar feeding is that it helps keep the leaves strong and lush as the nutrition is right where the plant needs it.

What Is The Best Fertiliser For Lilly Pilly’s?

Lilly Pilly’s are vigorous plants that require feeding to keep them growing optimally. The Plant Company’s shrub fertiliser has been blended to give plants an initial boost and then sustained nutrition for 12-months. We recommend the fertiliser is applied to the soil surface in spring just as the plants start to grow actively. More importantly, The Plant Company advises that no fertiliser is placed in the hole at planting, but rather spread around the soil surface so it can wash through the roots as it releases. This fertiliser ensures that nutrients remain in the soil around the plant rather than being lost through the soil profile to where the plant cannot reach it. This also applies to plants grown on sandy soils. The Plant Company’s shrub fertiliser is therefore very environmentally friendly and longer lasting than most other products in the market.

Foliar feeding using a liquid fertiliser can be undertaken if you have time but this is not essential if shrub fertiliser has been applied. If you think the plants need an extra boost or have some yellowing, however, a liquid fertiliser application won’t hurt. A great benefit of foliar feeding is that it helps keep the leaves strong and lush.

What Is The Best Organic Fertiliser For Lilly Pilly’s?

Lilly Pilly’s are showy plants that require feeding to keep them looking amazing. A lot of articles have all sorts of advice on this subject which often requires multiple applications so you use more of their fertiliser. The Plant Company prefers to take a simpler and more environmentally responsible approach. We believe the best organic option is The Plant Company’s organic fertiliser which is applied in spring and again in autumn and will keep them well fed. You can safely apply generous amounts of this fertiliser to plants without risk of injuring the plants. More details about this organic fertiliser are provided with the product.

What Is The Optimum Soil pH For Lilly Pilly’s?

The soil pH refers to how acid of alkaline the soil is. Lilly Pilly’s prefer a soil pH within the range of 6.2 to 7.5 which means they will tolerate both acidic and semi-alkaline soils. As the pH of the soil moves away from this optimum range, the nutrients the plant is taking up (or not taking up) through the roots changes. If the shift in pH is too far, this can result in deficiencies of some nutrients and toxic levels of others. In either case this can cause the plant to become sick or even die a slow death.

The best way to know whether the pH is correct for your plant is to do a test. The Plant Company has pH test kits available that are easy to use and only take a few minutes to get a result. Preferably this test should be completed before planting so any pH issues can be corrected without risking the plant. A pH less 6.2 should have sparing amounts of dolomite lime applied along with shrub fertiliser. A pH above 7.5 should have small amounts of soil acidifying fertiliser applied. In both instances the fertiliser should be thoroughly mixed into the soil before planting. A retest of the soil pH should be undertaken after four weeks and small adjustments made again. If the pH is in the optimum range, just use shrub fertiliser thereafter.

Lilly Pilly General Information

This series of articles answers many of the frequently asked questions about Lilly Pilly’s such as how fast they grow, their hardiness, and more!

Are Eugenia Roots Invasive?

Eugenia roots are generally not considered invasive. That is, they won’t damage foundations or plumbing like some invasive species. Eugenias have a dense network of roots that can make it difficult to grow smooth lawns or other shallow rooted plants next to them unless plenty of water is available. Large and established plants can develop surface roots that might lift bricks or pavers over time. So, it's best to avoid planting them too close to walkways or patios.

Are Lilly Pilly Fast Growing?

Lilly Pilly’s are generally considered fast-growing trees or shrubs. Depending on the specific variety and growing conditions, they can grow anywhere from 0.5 to 2 meters per year. So, they can quickly add height and density to your landscape.

Are Lilly Pilly’s Hardy To Frost?

Lilly Pilly’s are tolerant of moderate frost once established, though young trees should be protected until they are at least one metre tall. Frost Cloth is a good option for protecting vulnerable plants. Be careful to harden off recently purchased plants if you intend to plant these during winter and frosts are likely. Do this by gradually exposing them to the cooler conditions over a 2-3 week period or until such time as you think that a frost won’t damage them. The Plant Company recommends holding off planting until spring if you are at all worried that new plants might get frosted.

If plants do get frosted, they will generally recover. However, you will need to protect them from further frosts as this could kill them completely. Generally speaking, a good sized Lilly Pilly planted in spring should have grown tall enough to cope with 4-5 medium frosts the following winter.

Can You Eat Lilly Pilly Berries?

Eugenia produce small white flowers in spring that result in small, red-pink berries in summer. The edible fruits smell and taste like rose-water. By themselves they are not something you would consume in quantity, but are certainly great for adding to a salad or turning into jam. Some studies also indicate antiseptic properties and they are often used as an alternate or natural remedies.

Can You Freeze Lilly Pilly Fruit?

Yes, you can freeze Lilly Pilly fruit. They can last up to two years in a sealed container. They are then used for using them in jams, jellies, smoothies, or baking. Please note that freezing can cause the red color of the berries to fade. This is just a cosmetic change and doesn't affect the taste.

Do Lilly Pilly’s Flower?

Yes, Lilly Pilly plants produce flowers. The flowers are typically small and white, with a fluffy, "powder puff" appearance. These are usually borne in summer and are often fragrant. The flowers are followed by small berries that can be red, purple, or black. The berries are attractive to birds and can be used to make jams and jellies.

Eugenia Caryophyllata Common Name

The common name for Eugenia caryophyllata is clove. Clove is the aromatic flower bud of the Syzygium aromaticum tree, which is native to the Maluku Islands in Indonesia. It is a popular spice used in many cuisines around the world.

Eugenia Caryophyllus Flower Extract

Eugenia Caryophyllus flower extract is derived from the dried flower buds of the tree Eugenia caryophyllata. The extract is used in skin care products like creams, lotions, toners, masks, and ointments. It is also used in mouthwashes. The level of use is 5-10% in skincare products.

Eugenia Plant Flowers

The flowers of Eugenia plants come in a variety of colors, including white, red, and yellow, depending on the specific species. They are typically small and borne in clusters. Some Eugenia varieties, like the Surinam cherry (Eugenia uniflora), flower several times a year.

How Big Do Eugenia Get?

Eugenia can get quite large, depending on the species and climate. Some species, such as Eugenia myrtifolia can grow up to 6 m tall and 4.5 m wide. Others, such as Eugenia uniflora (Surinam cherry), are typically smaller, growing to be around 3 m tall and 2.4 m wide.

Here are some examples of the maximum heights of some popular Eugenia:

• Eugenia myrtifolia (Lilly Pilly): 6 m
• Eugenia uniflora (Surinam cherry): 3 m
• Syzygium polyantha (Snowball tree): 7 m
• Eugenia reinwardtiana (Ebony myrtle): 3.5 m
• Eugenia ventenatii (Rose apple): 4.5 m

It is important to note that Eugenia bushes can be pruned to keep them at a smaller size.

How Fast Do Lilly Pilly’s Grow?

Lilly Pilly’s are generally vigorous plants and establish quickly. Most will grow about 50-60 cm per year provided they are at least 30 cm tall when planted. Planting shorter plants will only give 30 cm of growth in the first year typically. Lilly Pilly’s are usually trimmed during winter when used for hedging with about 10-15% of the plant material cut off. A good pair of secateurs is all you need for this task.

How Tall Do Eugenia Ventenatii Lilly Pilly Get?

Eugenia ventenatii (Lilly Pilly) can grow up to 4 m tall and 3 m wide. It is a fast-growing evergreen shrub or small tree with dark green leaves and white flowers. The flowers are followed by small, edible fruits that are red or purple when ripe.

How Tall Will My Lilly Pilly Grow?

Lilly Pilly’s will eventually reach 4 m tall if they are neither trimmed nor contained (as might occur if planted in a pot). The Plant Company has put a lot of effort into determining how big each variety will grow in an unrestricted growing environment. Far too often we see people planting a garden too densely and then having to spend a lot of time trimming or removing plants later. This is something we want our customers to avoid and we therefore provide size information for each variety listed so the planning can be right from the start. Be sure to check out our range and the detailed information that accompanies each of our Lilly Pilly varieties.

Is Eugenia A Tree Or A Shrub?

Eugenia can be both a tree and a shrub, depending on the species and how it is pruned. Some species of Eugenia are naturally small trees, while others are naturally large shrubs. Eugenia can also be pruned to keep it at a shrubby size, or it can be allowed to grow taller into a tree.

Here are some examples of Eugenia trees:

• Eugenia uniflora (Surinam cherry)
• Eugenia dysenterica (Brazilian cherry)
• Eugenia jambolana (Java plum)
• Eugenia polyantha (Snowball tree)

Here are some examples of Eugenia shrubs:

• Eugenia myrtifolia (Lilly Pilly)
• Eugenia reinwardtiana (Ebony myrtle)

What Are The Negatives Of Lilly Pilly?

Lilly Pilly’s are generally popular for their attractive foliage, attractive fruit, and relatively low maintenance needs. However, they do have some downsides, depending on the species and your specific situation:

Pests and diseases:

• Psyllids: These sap-sucking insects are one of the biggest problems for Lilly Pilly’s, particularly the Syzygium australe species and its cultivars. They cause leaf curling, distorted growth, and can be challenging to control.
• Myrtle rust: This fungal disease can infect Lilly Pilly’s, causing leaf damage and defoliation. While some species are more resistant, it's still a concern, especially in affected regions.
• Other pests: Scale insects, mealybugs, spider mites, and caterpillars can also infest Lilly Pilly’s, although they're typically less common than psyllids.

Maintenance:

• Growth rate: Some Lilly Pilly species can grow quite quickly, requiring regular pruning to maintain their shape and size. This can be time-consuming and costly if you need professional help.
• Fruit fall: Lilly Pilly’s produce edible berries, but the fruit can fall and create mess, particularly under the tree. This can be a nuisance on walkways or patios.
• Root systems: Some species have aggressive root systems that can damage underground pipes or foundations. Careful planning and selection of varieties with less invasive roots are crucial.

Other considerations:

• Fruit stains: The purple fruit juices can stain surfaces, including clothing and decks.
• Bird droppings: Lilly Pilly’s attract birds, which can be beneficial for pest control but also leave droppings that can be messy and annoying.

What Is The Monkey Apple Tree?

The monkey apple plant, Syzygium smithii, also commonly called lilly pilly, is an evergreen tree native to Australia. It's known for its attractive appearance, edible fruits, and tolerance for various growing conditions. The foliage is glossy green and is complemented with small, white flowers in clusters. The flowers result in small, round fruits that mature from white to purple.

What Is The Toughest Lilly Pilly?

Defining the "toughest" Lilly Pilly can depend on what kind of challenges you're expecting it to face, but here are some contenders:

Environmental:

• Syzygium Resilience: This relatively new variety boasts high resistance to psyllids, a major pest for many Lilly Pilly’s. It also handles tough conditions like shade, poor soil, and even light frost.
• Acmena smithii 'Sublime': Adaptable to various soils, coastal environments, and even some drought periods, this medium-sized Lilly Pilly shows impressive resilience.

Disease and Pest Resistance:

• Syzygium Resilience: As mentioned before, its psyllid resistance is a major advantage.
• Syzygium luehmannii (Riberry Lilly Pilly): Generally resistant to psyllids and many other common pests, this smaller type is a low-maintenance option.

Growth and Longevity:

• Waterhousea floribunda (Weeping Lilly Pilly): This fast-growing, long-lived option can reach impressive heights over time, offering strong screening potential.
• Syzygium australe (Common Lilly Pilly): A classic choice, this adaptable tree thrives in various environments and can live for centuries.

Remember: No single Lilly Pilly is "universally tough," as their strengths and weaknesses depend on specific challenges. Do your research based on your specific needs and local climate to find the ideal candidate for your garden.

Lilly Pilly Hedge Information For NZ

Lilly Pilly’s (Syzygium australe) are a popular choice for hedges as they offer year-round beauty. Their glossy green leaves, red new foliage, vibrant bursts of white flowers, and edible purple berries create a hedge that's both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Moreover, their dense foliage makes them great for providing both privacy and screening. If you're considering a Lilly Pilly hedge for your garden, here's a few things you’ll want to know.

How Far Apart To Plant A Syzygium ‘Resilience’ Hedge?

Growing an Syzygium australe 'Resilience' hedge starts with determining how far apart to space the plants. As a general guide, 50 cm between the plants is the ideal spacing for a Lilly Pilly hedge. If you want the hedge to fill in faster, you can push the plants closer together, say to 40 cm. However, going wider than 50 cm will have two effects. The first is that the gap between the plants at the base will be harder to fill in. This is because the plants naturally grow upwards rather than sideways. The second is that the plants will tend to grow wider and broader rather than upward. At a closer spacing the plants compete for light, and in doing so, they push each other upwards. The Plant Company recommends a 45-50 cm spacing to achieve an amazing Syzygium ‘Resilience’ hedge.

How Hard Can I Prune A Lilly Pilly?

Most Lilly Pilly varieties will sprout new shoots when cut right back, even to stumps at ground level. However, this relies on the plant having heathy stems at the outset. If the stumps have any dead wood or they are too old (more than five years), they may not shoot or may only shoot on one side. Similarly, stumps that still have actively growing foliage may not sprout unless all the foliage connected to that stem is completely removed.

Severe pruning using a pruning saw is best undertaken any time from late autumn until early spring. Multiple shoots will usually grow from each stump. Please note: Lilly Pilly’s grown in heavy shade environments may struggle to re-establish when cut back severely.

How To Grow A Lilly Pilly Hedge

It is very easy to grow a Lilly Pilly hedge. Earlier we talked about how to plant a Lilly Pilly hedge and the best plant spacing for a hedge. Next comes the trimming as the general goal is a dense hedge that is not too wide and looks amazing! The way to achieve this is to begin trimming soon after the plants start to grow. The Plant Company recommends pinching out the ends of stems as they start to grow for the first year, so the plants become lush and bushy.

It is important to understand that the hedge is generally pruned in winter with about 10-15% of the exterior vegetation removed. The amount removed depends on how much you need to contain the hedge. The best Lilly Pilly hedges are trimmed again during summer. The notion being that the trimming is little and often to keep the plants dense and lush. That said, they still look good with once-a-year trimming.

The hedge width can be anywhere from 50 cm to 1.5m. Narrower hedges will require more regular trimming than wider ones, however. Work out the maximum width you want the hedge to grow to before trimming. Trimming is generally 5-10 cm back from that outer width and allowing for a centre of at least 30 cm.

How To Grow A Pleached Lilly Pilly Hedge

Lilly Pilly’s make amazing pleached hedges. The key is to get the right plants from the start and have some patience. If your budget allows, purchase 25L or larger grades that have been standardised. The nursery will have grown these with a clear and straight stem that is about 50-70 cm tall, and a bushy top. Don’t panic if they have don’t have standardised trees, the key is a straight trunk. Space plants anywhere from 60 cm to 1.2 m apart using a string line and a spirit level to get the plants perfectly aligned. Once planted, find the tree that has the tallest amount of clear stem and use this to set a new string line at that height. You can increase the height of clear stem trees simply by raising the height of the string. Now trim off any branches that are below the string line on all the trees. You can do this several months down the track if you want them to grow some more as trimming will slow the tree down. If your budget does not allow the bigger grades, you’ll need to persist with training it up a stake, and progressively trimming off the branches.

The pleached hedge is generally not trimmed (i.e., hedged) until it has been in the ground for six months. The hedge is generally pruned in winter with about 10-15% of the exterior vegetation removed. The amount removed depends on how much you need to contain the hedge. The best Lilly Pilly hedges are trimmed again during summer. The notion being that the trimming is little and often to keep the plants dense and lush. That said, they still look good with once-a-year trimming.

The hedge width can be anywhere from 40 cm to 90 cm for Lilly Pilly’s. The Plant Company usually recommends 75 cm as the trimmed width. Narrower hedges will take more regular trimming than wider ones, however. Work out the maximum width you want the hedge to grow to before trimming during your planning. Trimming is generally 5-10 cm back from that outer width.

How To Grow An Informal Lilly Pilly Hedge

Lilly Pilly’s make amazing informal hedges (i.e., minimally trimmed) and to create an outstanding hedge, space plants 50-60 cm apart. The faster you want the hedge to fill in, the closer they should be planted. Similarly, space plants closely if you want a dense hedge quickly (50 cm apart).

The hedge can be trimmed as little or as much as you want given it is the informality you are wanting. Sometimes, however, it is the natural shape (i.e., curvature of the plant) that clients are after but still with the hedge closing in. In these situations, The Plant Company recommends spacing plants 1-1.5 m apart, though they will take longer to close together in this situation.

How To Make A Topiary Standard Lilly Pilly

Creating a Lilly Pilly topiary standard requires both patience and a straight, single-stemmed plant to start off with. The plant is staked to grow with a straight trunk to just past the mid-height of the topiary (i.e., ball). All the side branches are trimmed off to about 10 cm above the mid-point of the topiary. The top of the plant is cut off just above the mid-point of the ball to encourage sprouting just below the cut. As the new stems grow, they are routinely “tipped” (i.e., the top bud is pinched out) to encourage more shoots. All the time, the ball is progressively shaped until the desired size is achieved. This process can take two years (or more) to complete. If all this seems too hard or you don’t have the patience, contact us and we can generally supply your needs.

How To Plant A Lilly Pilly Hedge

The most important thing to get right for a Lilly Pilly hedge is soil drainage. For the plants to grow well and thrive, the soil must drain freely. On sodden or heavy soils, the plants will struggle and may fall over or die. This is due to a root rot fungus that thrives in cold and wet soils. If the drainage is not easily corrected, consider planting the hedge on a low mound.

The Lilly Pilly plants should be planted into well cultivated soil such that the roots are fully covered. Adding compost or manure to the soil will help improve the soil conditions and enhance fertility but is only really needed if the soil is of poor quality. Once the plants are in the ground, firm them in gently with your foot, then scatter shrub fertiliser across the soil surface. It is important not to put fertiliser in the hole at planting as this can burn the roots. Water the plants well which will also see some of the fertiliser wash through into the roots. The Plant Company recommends staking the plants to reduce the chances of wind damage and to grow a plant with better form. We also recommend applying an organic mulch to the soil surface such as bark. This will suppress weeds and help retain moisture in the soil.

How To Trim Lilly Pilly Plants

Lilly Pilly’s are trimmed each winter to contain growth and encourage fresh, new growth. The Plant Company recommends they are lightly trimmed each year to the size you are after and allowing for 30-50 cm of extension growth. You can be as aggressive as you want as the plants will sprout new buds from healthy stumps. Any dead stems should also be removed at this time, along with stems that show disease.

A mistake often made is to not prune the plants hard enough. This error generally results in a woodier plant and a much larger plant that can be difficult to contain. Lilly Pilly’s are very forgiving plants and even if you get the trimming wrong, they will recover!

Lilly Pilly Hedge Spacing

The ideal spacing or planting distance for a Lilly Pilly hedge is 40-50 cm apart in NZ. With this spacing the plants will compete for light and push each other upwards in the process. At the same time, they will fill out nicely at the bottom, so you are not left with an annoying gap between the plants. You can space plants wider but that will have two effects. The first is the hedge will take longer to fill in and you may end up with a gap at the bottom of the hedge between the plants that often bothers people. For the sake of 1-3 extra plants, go with the recommended spacing to avoid future headaches!

If you have purchased large and bushy Lilly Pilly plants, these can be spaced up to 1 m apart for a hedge as often they are already 60 cm wide with dense foliage already. Check with The Plant Company if you are in doubt here.

What Is The Best Lilly Pilly For A Hedge In NZ?

New Zealand has several Lilly Pilly varieties, each with its own unique characteristics. However, the only one you will want to grow is Syzygium australe 'Resilience'. The reason for such a limited choice is because this variety is resistant to Psyllids, an insect pest that causes the leaves to develop bumps or wart-like blisters. This variety also has wonderful aesthetics, hence why The Plant Company recommends it. Varieties of Lilly Pilly that are not resistant to Psyllids are quickly disappearing from the market.

When Is The Best Time To Trim Lilly Pilly’s?

Lilly Pilly’s can be trimmed at any time of the year, though winter is the time recommended by The Plant Company. It is the new growth that makes the plants look amazing, so cutting out the older growth to make way for the new growth in spring is the goal. All you need is a good pair of secateurs and you can be as aggressive as you want. The plants will sprout new buds from stumps as long as they are healthy.

Highly manicured hedges are trimmed in winter and summer, and given generous amounts of shrub fertiliser and watered. This stimulates the new growth and associated red colouring.

When Lilly Pilly’s are grown in pots they are often clipped every 2-3 months. This keeps them dense and helps make them shapelier.

Lilly Pilly Problems, Diseases, And Solutions

Lilly Pilly’s do have issues from time to time. Therefore, it is important to understand the underlying issue(s) and have the remedies to fix the problem. The Plant Company have produced this series of articles to help you in the quest for solutions to address Lilly Pilly hedge problems and diseases.

Common Lilly Pilly Pests

Lilly Pilly’s suffer from one pest mainly, Psyllids! Aphids and scale insect are seen on occasion, however. Psyllid’s cause new leaves to develop small, pimple-like bumps across the leaf, which is quite unsightly. Severe infestations can result in the plant no longer growing and appearing quite sickly. Psyllids themselves are hard to see with the naked eye but when outbreaks are severe you will see a mass of white on the underside of the leaf. Scale insects and aphids will be present on the underside of leaves and on stems. Given Psyllids are the main pest, these are also controlled with the products used on the Psyllids.

Keeping plants healthy will help but does not stop them from being attacked despite many websites making this claim. In fact, healthy plants become a magnet for pests as they have a lot of sap that the insects feed upon. The Plant Company uses Wetcit in normal nursery operations to take advantage of its fungicidal and insecticidal properties. It is used in a preventative manner, and is one of the safest and least toxic products in the market. Rarely do we see Psyllids in the nursery with our plants sprayed every four weeks between spring and autumn. In the home garden, a spray with Wetcit in mid-spring, mid-summer, and mid-autumn should be all that is required. The key is to achieve good coverage and ensure the new foliage is thoroughly covered with particular attention to the underside of the leaf. Where Psyllids are observed or suspected, an insecticide such as Maverik will be included with the Wetcit. Please ensure you read the label carefully and use the appropriate safety gear when using any agrichemical.

How To Get Rid Of Sooty Mould On Lilly Pilly

Sooty mould results from fungi feeding off the secretions from sucking insects such as scale. The sugary residues (called honeydew) attract the black fungus. The fungus is not harmful to the plant, but does make the plant unsightly and it will be hindering photosynthesis. The problem is most easily remedied by killing the scale insects, Psyllids, or Aphids that are causing the secretion.

The honeydew can be hosed from the plant as a daily ritual. However, the sooty mould is a little harder to remove. The Plant Company recommends using Wetcit which will not only help remove the mould but also help control the problem insects. It will take several applications before the issue is resolved. Please always read the label and use appropriate safety gear when using an agrichemical.

Lilly Pilly Myrtle Rust Control

The most common problem with Lilly Pilly’s is Myrtle Rust. It shows up as rust-coloured spores, usually on new growth. The leaves will then develop yellow spots before eventually turning brown. The disease will spread throughout the plant and can affect other plants in the same family. It is generally not fatal for the plant, but is quite unsightly.

Myrtle Rust is most prevalent during spring, summer, and autumn, and is spread by water droplets and insects. Therefore, it is most prevalent in high humidity areas, or where plants are regularly sprayed with water.

Treatment for Myrtle Rust is two-fold. Localised infections are generally trimmed off and the material burnt or sent to landfill in a well-sealed bag. The plant is then sprayed with a copper fungicide at weekly intervals for the next three weeks.

Despite all the hype around Myrtle Rust, it is an easy disease to control with spraying. However, the key is to identify the issue quickly and respond in the same manner. The Plant Company uses Wetcit in normal nursery operations to take advantage of its fungicidal and insecticidal properties. When used in a preventative manner, it is one of the safest and least toxic products in the market. Rarely do we see Myrtle Rust in the nursery with our plants sprayed every four weeks between spring and autumn. If any signs are noticed, however, a Copper Fungicide will be used. Please ensure you read the label carefully and use the appropriate safety gear when using any agrichemical.

Lilly Pilly Root Rot Disease

Root rot is caused by the fungi, Phytophthora, which attacks the roots and weakens the plant. The tell-tale symptoms are yellowing of the leaves and the stems may droop, even though you know the soil is moist. Gardeners will often mistakenly think the plant needs more water when seeing the wilted state. Unfortunately, adding water only accelerates the problem prolonged wetness was generally the cause in the first place.

The best solution to this issue is good drainage. Often the disease will start to show several weeks after a prolonged rain event. It can also occur when plants are regularly over-watered. Therefore, good drainage is essential and sites where drainage is poor should not be avoided for Lilly Pilly’s.

Treatment for Phytophthora can be a hit and miss exercise as there are no silver bullets. However, if picked up early, The Plant Company has experienced some success using Transformer. Transformer does have fungicidal properties and when used as a soil drench 2-3 times, plants can bounce back. However, if the plant is too far gone, The Plant Company recommends removing the plant entirely, and using Transformer as a soil drench before putting in a new plant. Of course, the drainage or watering issues will need to be addressed so the problem does not manifest again.

What Is Causing The Lilly Pilly Leaves To Have Bumps?

Bumps on Lilly Pilly leaves are caused by Psyllids. This insect feeds on the underside of leaves and causes new leaves to develop small, pimple-like bumps across the leaf. The damage is quite unsightly, though severe infestations can result in the plant no longer growing and appearing quite sickly. Psyllids themselves are hard to see with the naked eye but when outbreaks are severe you will see a mass of white on the underside of the leaf. Please see the article, Lilly Pilly Pests for control options.

What Is Causing The Lilly Pilly Leaves To Yellow?

Leaf yellowing can result from Myrtle Rust, poor drainage, too much shade, or nutritional issues. Myrtle Rust will be evident from having rust coloured powder on the new leaves. Please see the article, Lilly Pilly Myrtle Rust, for more information and solutions if you think this is an issue. Poor drainage or gross over-watering can cause roots to become starved of oxygen and leaves to yellow. Fixing the drainage issue or reducing watering are solutions and should be coupled with shrub fertiliser.

Nutritional issues can occur if plants have not been fed for a number of years or if either they are grown on sandy soils or in a container. This often shows up as discoloured foliage which can start to fall. A liquid fertiliser can be used to correct issues quickly and should be supported with shrub fertiliser or fertiliser tablets.

What To Do About Lilly Pilly Frost Damage

If the new growth on your Lilly Pilly has been killed or damaged by frost, prune the plant back to healthy wood above a bud after the risk of frost has passed. If a plant has been aggressively pruned in a cold climate and an unseasonal frost is forecast, frost cloth or a blanket may be used to afford protection. It is important not to cut off the frosted growth until the risk has passed as this growth, albeit ugly, is helping to shield the plant from further damage.

New shoots tend to be more prone to frost damage than older ones. For this reason, The Plant Company does not recommend applying fertiliser of any kind to plants between mid-autumn and late-winter as this can create softer shoots when the buds open.

Lilly Pilly Propagation

Propagating Lilly Pilly’s is a relatively straightforward process when you have the right advice. They are easily rooted, and our articles give you the best chance of doing this successfully and efficiently.

How To Propagate Lilly Pilly’s

Lilly Pilly’s are easily propagated from stem cuttings. Semi-hardwood cuttings are usually taken from autumn until mid-spring. A stem about 8-10 cm long is trimmed into a cutting using secateurs with 2-3 leaves at the top and just below a node. A nick is taken off the base of the cutting to expose more tissue. The cutting is dipped in rooting hormone for 5-10 seconds and then inserted into propagation growing media. The tray of cuttings is placed under mist with bottom heat also applied. The cuttings will have taken root inside of five weeks as a general rule.

Lilly Pilly Varieties & Recommendations

Choosing a Lilly Pilly variety that works for you can be challenging given the sheer number that are available. Working through the different varieties, how big the flowers are, and so on, can take considerable time. The Plant Company’s series of short articles aims to offer concise and easy to follow advice and recommendations so you can determine the variety for your needs.

Are Eugenia And Syzygium The Same?

Yes, Eugenia and Syzygium are one in the same. Plants having two different genus names is quite common with latin names.

Eugenia Ventenatii Information

Eugenia ventenatii, commonly known as Lilly Pilly, is a versatile and popular shrub due to its lush foliage and attractive features. Some of its key characteristics include:

Appearance:

• Evergreen shrub with glossy, dark green foliage. New growth emerges in a striking bronze-red colour, creating a two-toned effect on the plant. The small, glossy leaves are produced densely on a network of short branches.
• Small, fragrant white flowers bloom in summer.
• It produces small, edible berries that can be red, purple, or black, depending on the variety. The berries are attractive to birds and can be used to make jams and jellies.
• Typically grows to around 4 meters tall and 3 meters wide.

Growing conditions:

• Prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.
• Thrives in well-drained, fertile soil.
• Tolerates dry periods once established but prefers consistent moisture.
• Adaptable to a wide range of climates, including moderate frost, cool climates, and coastal conditions.

Uses:

• Its dense growth habit makes it ideal for creating hedges and privacy screens.
• Eye-catching foliage makes it a beautiful specimen plant.
• Can be grown successfully in pots for patios, balconies, or pool areas.
• The flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, while the berries provide a food source for birds.

Lilly Pilly’s In The Plant Company’s Database

The list of Lilly Pilly varieties that The Plant Company has cataloged, worked on, propagated, and marketed is extensive. Our database of Lilly Pilly’s is listed below:

• Acmena 'Allyn Magic'
• Acmena australe 'Elite'
• Acmena 'Backyard Bliss'
• Acmena 'Firescreen'
• Acmena hemilampra
• Acmena 'Little Ruby'
• Acmena 'Orange Twist'
• Acmena smithii
• Acmena smithii ''Cherry Surprise'
• Acmena smithii 'Forest Flame'
• Acmena smithii 'Hot Flush'
• Acmena smithii minor
• Acmena smithii minor compacta
• Acmena smithii 'Sublime'
• Acmena 'Speed Screen'
• Acmena 'Straight and Narrow'
• Acmena 'Sunset Delight'
• Eugenia 'Amber Glow'
• Eugenia caryophyllata
• Eugenia dysenterica
• Eugenia jambolana
• Eugenia myrtifolia
• Eugenia myrtifolia 'Variegata'
• Eugenia reinwardtiana
• Eugenia uniflora
• Eugenia ventenatii
• Syzygium australe
• Syzygium australe 'Variegata'
• Syzygium 'Big Red'
• Syzygium 'Brilliant'
• Syzygium 'Bronze Hedgemaster'
• Syzygium 'Burgundy Glow'
• Syzygium 'Bush Christmas'
• Syzygium 'Hinterland Gold'
• Syzygium luehmannii
• Syzygium 'Obelisk'
• Syzygium polyanthum
• Syzygium 'Resilience'
• Syzygium smithii
• Syzygium 'Tom Thumb'
• Syzygium 'Winter Lights'
• Waterhousea floribunda
• Waterhousea 'Warners Select'

Syzygium Australe Information

Syzygium australe, commonly known as brush cherry, scrub cherry, or creek lilly-pilly, is a shrub or small tree. It is a rainforest tree native to eastern Australia, particularly along the coast of New South Wales, north of Batemans Bay. It is found in warm rainforests, often near streams, and its range extends into Queensland, up to around Cairns. Further details include:

Foliage and size

• The leaves are opposite, oval, narrowed to both ends, glossy and hairless. They can grow up to 100 mm long and 30 mm wide, and emit a pleasant aroma when crushed.
• Produces white flowers in clusters at or near branch ends. The flowers have prominent stamens that are longer than the petals.
• The fruit is a berry, oblong to ovate in shape, with a crimson to crimson-purple colour, usually glossy, and measures 10–25 mm long and 7–15 mm wide.

Cultivation:

• A popular and versatile plant for gardens and landscapes due to its attractive features and adaptability.
• Can be grown as a screen, hedge, or specimen plant.
• Responds well to pruning and can be maintained in a desired shape.
• Tolerates drought once established.
• Thrives in full sun to part shade conditions.
• The fruit is edible and can be eaten fresh or used in jams and jellies. It's a favourite among birds as well.

Syzygium Maire Information

Syzygium maire, commonly known as swamp maire or maire tawake is an evergreen tree endemic to New Zealand. It is found throughout the North Island, and the top of the South Island. This medium-sized tree typically reaches up to 16 m tall with multi-trunks to produce a compact canopy. Some further details include:

• Has pale, almost white bark that is smooth and soft to the touch.
• The leaves are thin, glossy, yellow-green, and often have small blisters and/or dark spots on the surface. The leaf margins are smooth and usually wavy, and leaves are arranged in opposite pairs.
• An interesting feature is its specialized root system (pneumatophores) that enables it to establish in poorly drained soils. These powdery, orange-brown, peg-like roots extend above the soil surface to take in air, particularly where conditions are wet.
• It produces white, rata-like flowers through summer and these result in bright red berries in autumn and winter. They are about 10mm in diameter, with each containing one seed.
• Once common in coastal and lowland swamps in New Zealand, it is now scarce due to land clearance and drainage.
• Nationally Critical in New Zealand due to threats from myrtle rust and habitat loss.
• Not commonly cultivated due to its specific habitat requirements.
• Maori traditionally used the wood for tool handles and the fruit for food.

Syzygium Smithii Information

Syzygium smithii, commonly known as Lilly Pilly is an evergreen tree reaching up to 20 m tall, but more often 5 m. Some of its characteristics include:

• The leaves are smooth, waxy, and cream-green in colour. New growth often has a flush of pink.
• The flowers in summer are cream-white with a fluffy appearance.
• The berries in winter are edible, white, pink, or purple.
• It is native to eastern Australia, particularly Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, and Tasmania.
• It is popular in landscapes due to its attractive foliage and tolerance for varied conditions.
• It’s dense growth habit makes it suitable for privacy purposes and also as a specimen plant.

Important Note:

In New Zealand, Syzygium smithii is considered an invasive pest plant due to its potential to outcompete native trees. Its propagation, distribution, and sale are banned. It's still possible to find existing Syzygium smithii plants in gardens, but there's no mandate to remove them unless they are causing a problem.

What Is the Psyllid Resistant Variety Of Lilly Pilly?

The Lilly Pilly variety that offers considerable resistance to Psyllids is Syzygium australe 'Resilience'. It is an attractive variety and should be used where a Lilly Pilly hedge is desired, but Psyllids are known to be a problem.

Which Lilly Pilly Is Best For Screening?

The best Lilly Pilly for screening depends on your specific needs and preferences, but here are some good options:

Fast-growing and dense:

• Acmena smithii 'Sublime': Medium-sized, glossy green foliage, grows 2-4 meters tall, tolerates light frost and wind.
• Acmena 'Backyard Bliss': Upright form, grows 3-5 meters tall, dense foliage with new growth flushing red, attracts birds.
• Waterhousea floribunda (Weeping Lilly Pilly): Weeping habit, fast-growing, reaches 5-8 meters tall, tolerates shade and dry periods.

Compact and low-maintenance:

• Syzygium australe 'Resilience': Slow-growing, dense foliage, tolerates harsh conditions, grows 2-3 meters tall.
• Acmena smithii minor: Slow-growing, compact, ideal for smaller spaces, tolerates coastal conditions, grows 1-2 meters tall.
• Syzygium 'Winter Lights': Variegated foliage, slow-growing, tolerates shade, grows 2-3 meters tall.

Planting And Growing Lilly Pilly’s

Planting Lilly Pilly’s and getting them to grow well is generally easy when you get a few of the basics right. This involves planting them in the right soil type, choosing the most ideal planting position, selecting the best variety, and ensuring the plants have the essentials to thrive. The Plant Company has the right advice to ensure success when you are growing a Lilly Pilly’s whether as standalone plants or as a hedge.

Are Lilly Pilly’s Easy To Grow?

Lilly Pilly’s are very easy to grow, but you need to have the basics right. Choose a sunny spot with good drainage. The soil should be well prepared with organic matter added from either compost or sheep pellets mixed in. Feeding your plants in spring with shrub fertiliser will replenish nutrients and keep them fed for 12 months. Prune your Lilly Pilly in winter each year with secateurs to control their growth and encourage fresh growth in spring. They should also be watered regularly during dry periods to keep them flourishing.`

They do suffer from a pest called Psyllid from time to time and can also get Myrtle Rust. Please see our articles in Lilly Pilly Issues And Troubleshooting for more information on these issues.

Can Lilly Pilly’s Be Grown In Coastal Environments?

Lilly Pilly’s are not well suited to coastal areas that constantly receive salt spray. If this is not an issue and they can be watered during dry periods, a coastal environment will be okay. The leaves are covered with a thin wax which does help protect them from the elements. If the soil is too saline, this can prove detrimental to plants and can result in the plants being stunted or killed. The level of salinity can only be determined through a sample sent to an accredited soil lab.

If you elect to plant in this environment, The Plant Company recommends ensuring the soil is well prepared with organic matter such as compost and provide some shelter with regular watering dry periods. A good indicator of whether they will grow well is to look at Lilly Pilly’s growing in the area.

Can Lilly Pilly’s Grow In The Shade?

The answer to this question depends on how much shade. As shade levels increase, Lilly Pilly’s tend to become “leggy” with “floppy” growth. In full sun they tend to be much more compact in their growth and new growth is a much more intense red. So yes, they will grow in partial shaded conditions such as down the side of a house or under dappled light from a tree, but performance is likely to be less than if they were growing in better light. Please note that in partially shaded environments the central leaves on the plant will often yellow and fall which can result in a plant that has mostly exterior foliage only.

Can You Grow Lilly Pilly’s In Pots?

Absolutely and they look amazing when managed appropriately. Choose a pot that is no more than twice the size of what the Lilly Pilly is currently growing in and that has plenty of drainage holes in the bottom. Fill the bottom of the pot to about 1/3 of the way up with potting mix. Do not use soil or compost when growing plants in a container and do not add fertiliser. The Plant Company potting mix has all the nutrients required to sustain the plant for the next 12 months.

Remove the plant from the container it is growing in by either pulling it free or by cutting the bag. We recommend cutting the bag or container, especially for larger grade plants, to minimise any chance of damaging the roots. If the roots have been growing in a circle or are all bound up you can tease them apart if you want but this is not essential. Similarly, you don’t need to remove any of the growing media. The Plant Company does not recommend cutting the roots, even if the plant is root-bound as this offers no benefit. This is explained in our article, Managing Rootbound Plants. Add more potting mix and firm this around the plant using gentle pressure, then water well. They should be watered twice a week during hot weather and weekly or fortnightly during cooler periods.

The key to having an amazing Lilly Pilly in a pot is to keep trimming it to keep it shapely, contained, and dense. Typically, the plants would be lightly clipped every 2-3 months.

How To Grow Lilly Pilly’s

Choose a full sun position with good drainage and moderate shelter for your Lilly Pilly. The hole should be dug to at least 50-75% deeper and wider than the container the plant is currently growing in. The Plant Company recommends incorporating compost or sheep pellets into the soil to provide additional organic material, but this is not essential. Do not put fertiliser in the bottom of the hole, rather spread shrub fertiliser on the soil surface after planting, and preferably do this when the plant is actively growing in spring.

There are specific articles to help you grow amazing Lilly Pilly’s:

• How To Plant A Lilly Pilly
• How To Trim A Lilly Pilly
• Best Fertiliser For Lilly Pilly’s Grown In Soil
• When To Water Lilly Pilly’s
• How To Mulch Lilly Pilly’s
• Lilly Pilly Issues And Troubleshooting

How To Plant A Lilly Pilly?

Choose a full sun position with good drainage for your Lilly Pilly plant. The hole should be dug to at least 50-75% deeper and wider than the container the plant is currently growing in. A planting spade makes the hole digging a lot easier. The Plant Company recommends incorporating compost or sheep pellets into the soil to provide additional organic material, but this is not essential. Do not put fertiliser in the bottom of the hole, rather spread that on the soil surface after planting, and preferably do this when the plant is actively growing in spring.

Remove the plant from the container it is growing in by either pulling it free or by cutting the bag. We recommend cutting the bag, especially for larger grade plants, to minimise any chance of damaging the roots. If the roots are bound up, you can tease them apart if you want but this is not essential. The Plant Company does not advise cutting through roots, even if the plant is rootbound, as that injures the plant. Our article, Managing Rootbound Plants explains this in more detail.

Now place the plant in the hole and make sure it is level with the soil surface before filling in around it. If it is above the soil surface, dig more out. If it is below, put in more soil and retest the level. Once the plant is set level with the soil surface, add more soil gradually and firm it around the plant using gentle pressure as you go. Scatter shrub fertiliser across the soil surface after planting and the give the plant a good watering.

What Is The Best Soil For A Lilly Pilly?

Soils rich in fertility and organic matter that are well-drained will produce amazing plants. The soil should be well prepared with either compost or sheep pellets mixed in at planting or spread on the soil surface after planting. It is important that the soil being planted into won’t restrict root growth and for this reason, clay soils are generally not well suited to Lilly Pilly’s. Clay soils also tend to be very wet which will negatively impact the performance of the plant.

Feeding your Lilly Pilly plants in spring with shrub fertiliser will replenish nutrients and keep them fed for 12 months. Liberal amounts of organic fertiliser can also be used. Ensure plants are watered regularly during dry periods to keep them flourishing.

What Is The Best Soil For Lilly Pilly’s Grown In A Pot?

Only potting mix should be used when plants are grown in a container. Often people will try and cut corners and use soil or mixes that contain both soil and potting mix with poor results. The same applies to when plants are potted up with compost as it holds too much moisture. Soil also contains weeds and tends to become compacted in a container, hence why it is not used in this manner. The Plant Company has nursery grade potting media which is pre-loaded with the correct amounts of fertiliser and micro-nutrients to keep the plant sustained with nutrition and actively growing for the next 12-months. After 12-months, simply add a couple fertiliser tablets to keep the plant fed for the next 12-months.

What Is The Best Time To Plant A Lilly Pilly?

Lilly Pilly’s are best planted from mid-autumn until late spring. During this time, they can cope with the stresses associated with planting (root damage mainly) more easily than if they have to also cope with heat and moisture stress as well. They can be planted in summer provided they are well-watered and the roots have plenty of growing media attached when planted. If watering is a challenge, The Plant Company advises planting from late-autumn through until early-spring. Make sure you have a good planting spade to make this job a lot easier.

What Mulch To Use With Lilly Pilly’s?

Placing mulch around Lilly Pilly’s helps keep the soil moist and significantly reduces weeds. The Plant Company recommends an organic mulch is used as this breaks down over time to provide nutrients and improves the soil. It is also better for the environment than the plastic-based alternatives. Whatever type of mulch is used, it needs to be free draining so the soil can “breathe” and allow water to penetrate quickly and easily. Heavy rates of lawn clippings are therefore not a good option as they hold too much moisture.

The Plant Company has three very good options for mulch. The first is coco fibre matting which is made from the husks of coconuts. The second is Earth Mat which is made from recycled paper. Both of these break down to become part of the soil within two years. The third is black plastic matting which will last 20 years or more. Whichever mulch is used, The Plant Company recommend stones, bark chip, or other similar products be spread over top for aesthetic purposes.

Compost is not considered an effective mulch as weeds germinate easily and it is only short lasting. It is, however, a very good method of adding organic matter to the soil and should be applied before the mulch is put down.

Where Do Lilly Pilly’s Grow Best?

A full sun or lightly shaded position with good drainage is essential for getting the best results with Lilly Pilly’s. On poorly drained sites or with over-watering they tend to become stunted and sickly looking. This can cause and result in root rot issues that may eventually kill the plant if drainage is very poor. If you think this might be a problem for you, please refer to the article, Lilly Pilly Root Rot Disease.

As shade levels increase, Lilly Pilly’s tend to become more open in their growth habit and somewhat “floppy”. In full sun they tend to be more compact and denser which is particularly important if you are considering a hedge or specimen. A better plant will result if the position is moderately sheltered so fresh growth is not damaged by wind. This is not essential as they can cope with some wind but it will result in a shapelier plant overall. Where ever they are grown, make sure they have plenty of room to expand!