Call us: 0800 843 752Free shipping for orders $150 or over
Gift Vouchers

lilly pilly plant

The lilly pilly plant is a favourite among New Zealand gardeners, thanks to its striking foliage, fluffy white summer flowers, and colourful berries that attract native birds. Loved for its versatility, the lilly pilly plant makes a stunning hedge, screening plant, or attractive feature tree in any Kiwi garden. With low maintenance needs and fast-growing habits, lilly pilly plants are perfect for creating privacy, establishing windbreaks, and adding lush greenery to outdoor spaces.

Large Eugenia ventenatii hedge with red and green foliage.

Eugenia ventenatii

Eugenia ventenatii (Lilly Pilly) is a popular evergreen shrub known for its dense foliage, glossy leaves, and attractive new growth. It performs very well in New Zealand conditions and is widely used for hedging, screening, and topiary. This versatile plant provides year round structure and responds well to trimming. Eugenia ventenatii (Lilly Pilly) is ideal for creating privacy and adding greenery to any garden.

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type: Shrubs
Height: 4.00 m
Spread: 3.00 m
Flowering time: Summer
Garden uses: Containers, Hedging, Living areas, Parks, Pool areas, Screening, Specimen
Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Tropical
eugenia-uniflora-surinam-cherry-

Eugenia uniflora (Surinam Cherry)

Eugenia uniflora, commonly known as the Surinam or Brazilian Cherry, is a small tree that features new foliage which emerges a bronze colour and ages to become dark green. The somewhat dense foliage is adorned with star-shaped, red fruits during summer. It typically grows to 6 m tall and 3.5 m wide, but can be trimmed as necessary. Eugenia uniflora is commonly used for hedging and screening, planted as a backdrop for smaller plants, grown as a specimen, added to a mixed planting, or maintained in a container.

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type: Trees
Height: 6.00 m
Spread: 3.50 m
Flowering time: Spring
Tolerances: Coastal
Garden uses: Culinary, Hedging, Living areas, Parks, Pool areas, Screening, Specimen, Walls
Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern
Eugenia ventenatii

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Eugenia, or related Categories - Evergreen Shrubs and Evergreen Trees.

Search Eugenia Szygium

Why Grow a Lilly Pilly Plant in New Zealand?

The lilly pilly plant thrives in New Zealand’s mild climate, handling a range of soils and weather conditions. Its dense growth makes it an ideal choice for hedging, while the glossy leaves provide year-round interest. As an evergreen, the lilly pilly plant holds its foliage throughout the seasons, giving your garden structure even in winter. Many varieties produce edible berries, which can be enjoyed fresh or used in jams and preserves.

Top Lilly Pilly Varieties

Lilly pilly encompasses several species, many of which are well suited to New Zealand conditions. Popular types include:

Growing and Caring for Your Lilly Pilly Plant

Plant your lilly pilly in full sun to part shade for the best results. Well-drained soil will support strong growth, though lilly pilly plants are quite adaptable. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds, especially during the first year. A light trim after flowering helps maintain shape and encourages dense foliage, making it easy to keep your hedge lush and tidy.

Fertilise in spring with a balanced, slow-release fertiliser to promote vibrant growth and prolific berry production. Most lilly pilly varieties demonstrate good resistance to pests, but keep an eye out for psyllids, and choose resistant cultivars if this is a concern in your area.

Uses for Lilly Pilly in Your Garden

Whether you need a privacy screen, a windbreak, or a feature plant, the lilly pilly plant fits the bill. It’s a favourite for topiary, responds well to clipping, and can be shaped for formal or informal hedging. The clusters of berries aren’t just attractive; they also provide a food source for birds and pollinators in your garden.

Explore Our Lilly Pilly Selection

Thinking of adding a lilly pilly plant to your garden? Check out our selection of Eugenia ventenatii (Lilly Pilly), Syzygium australe, and Eugenia myrtifolia (Syzygium myrtifolia), all perfect for New Zealand conditions. With these versatile plants, you’ll enjoy stunning foliage, privacy, and a thriving, bird-friendly garden year-round.


Contact us

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.

You know Aesculus hippocastanum and Avocado 'Hass', but have you met Hebe Black Satin, Myrtus ugni (Chilean Guava), and Viburnum opulus Sterile (Snowball Bush)? These beauties are worth a closer look.
–The Plant Company

Explore Garden Inspiration

Sign up to receive a free $10 Voucher You won’t be bombarded with emails, just titbits of quality information from time to time Sign up
Free shipping on orders over $150!

Join our community of happy customers.

4.9

429 Google reviews