Lilly pilly

Acmena smithii minor is a compact form of the Lilly Pilly, featuring glossy green leaves and attractive pink-flushed new growth. It produces white fluffy flowers followed by edible purple berries, making it a favourite for privacy screens.

Acmena smithii var. minor is a small leaved lilly pilly. When it is clipped as a hedge it is usually kept between one and three metres, although unclipped plants can grow taller. The new growth often flushes pink, and the cream summer flowers are followed by pink to purple berries in autumn and winter.

It suits full sun to part shade and soil that stays moist but drains. Lilly pillies can be attacked by the lilly pilly psyllid, which leaves small pimple-like marks on new leaves, so regular light clipping of the new growth helps keep them tidy. Mulch around the base and water in dry weather.