Acmena Smithii Var. Minor

Dwarf Lilly Pilly

Botanical Name: Acmena smithii var. minor (syn. Syzygium smithii var. minor)
Family: Myrtaceae
Origin: Eastern Australia (small-leaf form)
Plant Type: Evergreen large shrub (hedge/screen)

Overview

A classic small-leaf lilly pilly for privacy hedges. Dense, glossy foliage with bronze–copper new growth matures to rich green. Cream, fluffy flowers in late spring–summer are followed by pink–purple berries that birds enjoy. Naturally narrow, psyllid-resistant, and easy to clip.

Key Features

• Mature Size: 3-5 m H x 1.5-3 m W (keeps smaller with clipping)
• Growth Rate: 40-80 cm per year under good conditions
• Foliage: Small, glossy leaves; bronze/copper new flushes; dense to ground level
• Flowers: Cream, fluffy flowers late spring–summer (lightly fragrant); pink–purple berries (edible, tart)
• Seasonal Interest: Repeating colourful new growth; summer flowers; decorative berries
• Wildlife Value: Flowers for pollinators; berries for birds
• Tolerance: Drought-tolerant once established; heat & wind tolerant; light–moderate frost; second-line coastal;
• Planting Density: Privacy hedge (clipped): 1 plant per metre (60–80 cm centres for fastest knit); Informal screen: 1.5–2 m apart; Specimen: 2–3 m spacing
• Pet Friendly: Non-toxic to cats & dogs (ingestion of any plant may cause mild tummy upset)

Where It Works Best

• Sunlight: Full sun to part shade
• Soil: Well-drained loam, sandy loam or clay loam
• Water Needs: Establishment: 2 deep soaks/week for 8–12 weeks. Established: deep soak every 2–3 weeks in summer (weekly in heatwaves); rarely in winter—only if dry
• Maintenance: Clip after flushes to thicken; trims well; mulch in spring; balanced fertiliser in early spring
• Lifespan: 15–25+ years in well-drained sites
• Climate Zones: Temperate & Mediterranean SA; second-line coastal OK
• Soil pH: Neutral (adaptable: slightly acidic–slightly alkaline)

Landscape & Design Ideas

• Privacy hedge/screen for boundaries and side fences
• Formal clipped hedge
• Mass plant for a tidy evergreen backdrop
• Evergreen boundary softening

Why You Will Love It

A proven privacy hedge that’s fast, dense and easy to keep neat—glossy foliage with colourful new growth and low fuss.