Best Fertiliser for Lilly Pilly (Including Hedges & Native Species like Syzygium wilsonii)

Lilly pilly plants are some of the most popular hedging and ornamental trees across Australia. With glossy evergreen leaves, fluffy flowers, and colourful berries, they’re versatile, fast-growing, and suitable for a wide range of climates.

What Is a Lilly Pilly? Australian Natives with Stunning Form & Function

Lilly pilly refers to several species within the Syzygium, Acmena, and Waterhousea genera—many of which are native to Australia. These plants are ideal for hedges, screening, or feature planting. Commonly grown species include:

Syzygium australe: One of the most popular hedge plants; fast-growing with red new foliage and edible berries
Acmena smithii: Compact growth and good for smaller hedges or pots
Waterhousea floribunda: Known as Weeping Lilly Pilly—perfect for tall, lush screening
Syzygium wilsonii (Powderpuff Lilly Pilly): A tropical native with striking fluffy flowers and red berries—native to the rainforests of northern Queensland

These species vary in height (from 1.5m shrubs to 8m trees), but all respond well to regular pruning and feeding. Their dense foliage makes them excellent for privacy hedges or feature garden designs.

How to Grow & Maintain Healthy Lilly Pilly Hedges

Lilly pilly is low-maintenance once established, but benefits greatly from the right care, especially during the first 12 months.

Soil & Position

Sunlight: Prefers full sun to part shade
Soil: Slightly acidic to neutral, well-draining soil enriched with organic material or fertiliser
Climate: Grows well across coastal, subtropical, and temperate regions of Australia

Watering & Pruning

Water regularly during the first year to establish strong roots
Once established, they are drought-tolerant but will still appreciate occasional deep watering during hot weather
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth—especially for hedges

Regular trimming of hedges will keep them dense and vibrant, while tree-form species like Syzygium wilsonii may only require occasional pruning to shape or remove dead wood.

Common Problems

Psyllid damage: Bumpy, distorted leaves—especially on Syzygium varieties. Feeding with a complete fertiliser strengthens resistance.
Yellowing leaves: Often caused by nutrient deficiencies or overwatering
Leggy growth: Insufficient light or irregular pruning can lead to thinning hedges

Best Fertiliser for Lilly Pilly Trees & Hedges: NPK Guide & Application

Lilly pilly plants are fast growers and benefit from regular fertilising to maintain dense foliage, vibrant colour, and resistance to pests like psyllids.

What Nutrients Do Lilly Pilly Need?

Balanced Nitrogen (N): Encourages leafy growth and deep green colour
Phosphorus (P): Supports root development and flowering (especially for Syzygium wilsonii)
Potassium (K): Enhances stress resistance, drought tolerance, and berry production
Calcium & Magnesium: Improve overall plant strength and nutrient uptake

Fertilising Tips

New plantings: Apply a half-strength balanced liquid fertiliser every 2 weeks for the first 2 months
Established plants: Feed every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with a complete fertiliser
Hedges: Use a slightly higher nitrogen ratio to support dense foliage (NPK 20-20-20 is ideal)
Flowering species like S. wilsonii: Benefit from a formula with more potassium to encourage blooms

For best results, water before and after feeding, and avoid applying fertiliser in extreme heat. Foliar feeding can also boost growth during active periods in spring.