Syzygium Australe, also recognized as the Brush Cherry or Scrub Cherry, is the go-to choice for native screening and hedging. Its stunning bronze-toned leaves mature to vibrant green, making it a versatile addition to your landscape. Enjoy the sight of blooming spring blossoms that are a magnet for birds. With fast growth and minimal upkeep, it’s perfect for creating a 3m hedge.
Product Specifications
- Common Name: Syzygium Australe
- Uses: Screening, hedging, privacy screen
- Mature Height: 6 meters
- Mature Width: 3 meters
- Spacing:Â Plant 1 meter apart for screening hedge
- Growth Rate: Fast
- Foliage: Compact, upright green with copper tipped new foliage
- Flowers: Fluffy white flowers during spring, followed by red berries
- Native:Â Yes
- Bird attracting: Yes
- Evergreen/Deciduous:Â Evergreen
- Position: Full sun – semi shade
- Maintenance: Low – medium, light pruning to encourage a neat hedge
- Soil Type:Â Loam, Sandy, prefers well-drained soil
- Water Requirements: Low – medium
Commonly Asked Questions
How far apart should I plant Syzygium Australe for a screening hedge?
The spacing for planting Syzygium australe, commonly known as Lilly Pilly, largely depends on the desired density of your hedge and how quickly you want it to form a solid screen.
For a dense hedge, planting these shrubs closer together around a meter apart is ideal. The key is to balance your desire for an immediate screen versus allowing the plants some space to grow and fill in naturally over time. Regular pruning and maintenance will also help shape the hedge and maintain its density as it matures.
How fast do Syzygium Australe grow?
Syzygium australe, commonly known as Lilly Pilly, is considered a moderately fast-growing plant. Under favorable conditions—such as adequate sunlight, well-draining soil, and sufficient water—it can grow at a moderate pace. On average, Lilly Pilly can grow anywhere from 30 centimeters to 1 meter per year, especially during its active growing seasons. However, growth rates can vary based on factors like climate, soil quality, water availability, and pruning. During its initial establishment phase, when the plant is young and developing its root system, it may show faster growth. Once established, the growth rate might moderate slightly, but the plant will continue to develop and mature.
Regular watering, occasional fertilization, and appropriate pruning can help optimize the growth of Syzygium australe, ensuring a healthy and lush hedge or screen.
Should I prune my plants?
Syzygium australe, commonly known as the Lilly Pilly, is a popular hedge and screening plant in Australia known for its glossy foliage and compact growth. Pruning is essential to maintain its shape and density. Light pruning can be done throughout the year to remove any dead, diseased, or crossing branches. This helps maintain the plant’s health and appearance. The best time for heavier pruning is typically after the flowering period. In most regions, this occurs in late spring or early summer. Pruning after flowering helps promote new growth and maintains a neat shape.
When pruning, ensure you use clean, sharp tools to make precise cuts without causing unnecessary damage to the plant. Additionally, while Syzygium australe tolerates pruning well, avoid cutting into older wood excessively as it might affect flowering and growth. Regular pruning will help keep your Syzygium australe hedge or screen in good health and maintain its desired shape and density.