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lilly pilly acmena smithii

Lilly pilly acmena smithii, scientifically known as Syzygium smithii, is one of New Zealand’s favourite evergreen shrubs for hedging, screening, and garden borders. With eye-catching glossy green leaves and flushes of red new growth, this plant offers year-round interest and is prized for its versatility. Lilly pilly acmena smithii adapts well to local climates, tolerates moderate frosts, and thrives in both full sun and partial shade. Its dense foliage provides natural privacy, reduces noise, and brings a lush look to native gardens or modern landscapes alike.

Syzygium smithii

Syzygium smithii, Acmena smithii

Syzygium smithii, commonly known as Lilly Pilly, is a small, evergreen tree. It features glossy, new foliage that is a distinct shade of red and ages to become dark green. This is a fast-growing tree that will reach about 6-10 m tall and 4 m wide though it is easily contained with trimming. Syzygium smithii is commonly trimmed into a hedge, grown as a specimen, added to a mixed planting, or used for screening and shelter.

Syzygium smithii tree with red berries and green foliage.
  • Suited to regions:
    Subtropical, Temperate
  • Plant type:
    Trees
  • Height:
    8.00 m
  • Spread:
    4.00 m
  • Flowering time:
    Summer
  • Garden uses:
    Hedging, Living areas, Parks, Pool areas, Screening, Specimen, Topiary
  • Garden styles:
    Backyard, City & Courtyard, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Tropical
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Syzygium smithii

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Why Choose lilly pilly acmena smithii?

Lilly pilly acmena smithii stands out among New Zealand garden plants for several reasons. It forms a tidy, fast-growing hedge that's easy to maintain with regular trimming. This plant is resilient against pests and disease, thanks to its tough foliage and smooth stems. In spring and summer, Syzygium smithii produces clusters of fluffy white flowers, followed by edible purple berries that attract birds and provide extra visual charm.

If you’re looking for a reliable shrub for a formal hedge or a relaxed living screen, lilly pilly acmena smithii offers exceptional adaptability. It’s perfect for coastal gardens, urban spaces, and rural landscapes alike. For gardeners seeking alternatives or companion plants, consider Syzygium Resilience, Syzygium Big Red, and Syzygium Bronze Hedgemaster (Syzygium Hedgemaster), each offering unique foliage colours and growth habits.

Planting and Growing Tips

Lilly pilly acmena smithii thrives in well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. After planting, mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Although drought-tolerant once established, regular watering during the first year ensures healthy growth. For a dense hedge, space the plants about 1 metre apart. Prune lightly throughout the year to encourage bushy new shoots and shape your hedge as desired.

Syzygium smithii’s compact form makes it equally suited for pots, borders, and low-maintenance screening. If you’re exploring other colourful shrubs, Syzygium Brilliant and Syzygium Tom Thumb provide excellent alternatives with varying heights and leaf tones.

Landscaping Ideas and Companion Plants

Whether creating a vibrant native garden or a more formal landscape, lilly pilly acmena smithii works beautifully alongside other trees and shrubs. Try pairing it with Alnus glutinosa 'Laciniata' for textured greenery, or contrast with the striking reds of Acer rubrum and Acer Stella Rossa. For seasonal blooms, Magnolia Cameo and Cercis canadensis Hearts of Gold (Redbud) add colourful highlights while complementing the lush form of Syzygium smithii.

Discover the Versatility of lilly pilly acmena smithii

For gardeners across New Zealand, lilly pilly acmena smithii remains a popular choice for its reliability, beauty, and minimal care requirements. Enjoy year-round greenery, native wildlife, and an easy-to-shape hedge or screen—Syzygium smithii is a true asset for gardens of any size. Explore our collection for more varieties of Syzygium and ideal companion plants to transform your outdoor space.


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Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

–The Plant Company

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