Lilly Pillies: Your Ultimate Guide to These Iconic Native Plants
Lilly Pillies are a group of evergreen shrubs and small trees beloved by Australian gardeners for their lush foliage, fast growth, and remarkable versatility. Native to Australia and Papua New Guinea, these plants are perfect for hedging, screening, and ornamental planting.
At Fairhill Native Botanical Gardens & Nursery on the Sunshine Coast, we stock a wide range of healthy Lilly Pilly varieties. Whether you’re looking for compact shrubs for a neat hedge or tall, elegant trees for screening, you’ll find the perfect Lilly Pilly at Fairhill.
What Are Lilly Pillies?
Lilly Pillies belong to the Myrtle family (Myrtaceae) and are part of three main genera:
Acmena
Syzygium
Waterhousea
Their versatility and adaptability make Lilly Pillies a very successful addition to both urban and coastal gardens, particularly on the Sunshine Coast.
Lilly Pilly Species and Names
Here’s a closer look at the three main types of Lilly Pillies and their unique characteristics.
Acmena
Common Names: Creek Lilly Pilly, Satinash
Features: Compact, dense foliage and excellent tolerance for pruning make Acmena species ideal for formal hedges and garden screens.
Syzygium
Common Names: Brush Cherry, Riberry, Satinash
Features: The most diverse group of Lilly Pillies, Syzygium species are fast-growing and upright, making them suitable for large hedges or screens. Popular varieties include:
Syzygium australe: Known as Brush Cherry, with glossy green leaves and red berries.
Syzygium luehmannii: Often called Riberry, featuring small leaves, fluffy white flowers, and vibrant pink berries.
Waterhousea
Common Names: Weeping Lilly Pilly
Features: Known for their graceful, weeping foliage and tall, elegant growth, Waterhousea species are perfect for larger gardens where they can create a natural, soft screen.
Overseas, Syzygium species native to other parts of the world are known by a variety of names, including:
Jambu
Java apple
Malabar plum
Water apple
Waterberry
Waterbessie
Why Are Australian Native Lilly Pillies So Popular?
Lilly Pillies are valued for their:
Versatility: Suitable for hedges, screens, ornamental plantings, or even container gardening.
Lush Foliage: Evergreen and available in shades from glossy green to vibrant red.
Flowers and Berries: Fluffy white flowers attract pollinators, while the colorful berries feed native birds.
Hardiness: Thrives in a variety of conditions, including the subtropical climate of the Sunshine Coast.
Where to Buy Lilly Pillies on the Sunshine Coast
You can find a wide range of Lilly Pilly varieties at Fairhill Native Botanical Gardens & Nursery, the Sunshine Coast’s iconic destination for native plants.
Why Choose Fairhill?
Extensive range of Australian natives.
Expert gardening advice.
Beautiful setting to inspire your gardening projects.
Address: 114 Fairhill Road, Ninderry QLD 4561
Directions: Take the Yandina exit 215 off the Bruce Highway M1 and follow the signs to Fairhill Native Botanical Gardens.
Contact: Visit our website or call (07) 5343 7906.
Caring for Your Lilly Pillies
Lilly Pillies are relatively low-maintenance, but here are some tips to keep them thriving:
Soil: Plant in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter.
Watering: Regular watering is essential for young plants. Mature plants can tolerate dry spells.
Fertilizing: Use a native slow-release fertilizer during the growing season.
Pruning: Prune regularly to encourage dense growth and maintain shape.
Enhance Your Garden with Lilly Pillies from Fairhill!
Whether you’re after a hedge, screen, or ornamental feature, Lilly Pillies are a fantastic choice for Sunshine Coast gardens. Visit Fairhill Native Botanical Gardens & Nursery today to browse our collection and find the perfect plant for your space.
Explore the beauty and versatility of these iconic natives and transform your garden into a lush paradise. We look forward to helping you bring your vision to life! 🌿
