How Fast Does Lilly Pilly Grow?

Lilly Pilly (Syzygium species) is one of Australia’s fastest-growing hedge plants, making it a popular choice for privacy screens and garden borders. Under the right conditions, Lilly Pilly grows 30–60cm per year, and some vigorous varieties can grow even faster.

Typical Growth Rate

Young plants: Establish roots in the first year, with moderate growth of 20–30cm.
Established hedges: Once settled, expect 30–60cm of growth per year.
Dwarf varieties: Grow slower, around 15–30cm annually.
Tall screening types: Some cultivars can reach 4–5m in just a few years.

The speed of growth depends on climate, soil quality, water, and fertiliser. With proper care, a dense hedge can usually be achieved within 2–3 years of planting.

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Tips to Speed Up Lilly Pilly Growth

If your hedge is slow to establish, these care practices will help speed up growth and thicken foliage:

Fertilising

Feed regularly with CompleteGrow All Purpose NPK 20-20-20. For in-ground hedges, apply every 6–8 weeks in the growing season. For potted Lilly Pilly, use the liquid form every 2–4 weeks. This provides the balanced nutrients needed for lush, rapid growth.

Watering

Water deeply 2–3 times per week during establishment.
Once mature, reduce to weekly watering in summer and less in winter.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and stabilise soil temperature.

Pruning

Lightly prune every 6–8 weeks during the growing season to encourage branching.
Fertilise after pruning to fuel quick regrowth.
For slow hedges, a harder cut in spring can rejuvenate plants and stimulate fresh growth.

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FAQs on Lilly Pilly Growth

Q: How long does it take for a Lilly Pilly hedge to grow?
A: With proper care, a dense privacy hedge can form in 2–3 years, depending on spacing and variety.

Q: Do all Lilly Pilly varieties grow at the same speed?
A: No. Dwarf forms are slower, while tall screening types can grow over 1m per year in ideal conditions.

Q: How can I make my Lilly Pilly grow faster?
A: Regular watering, light pruning, mulching, and feeding with CompleteGrow NPK 20-20-20 will maximise growth speed.

Q: Does sunlight affect growth?
A: Yes. Full sun produces the fastest growth, while part-shade hedges may grow more slowly and less densely.

Q: Can I grow a fast hedge in pots?
A: Yes, but growth is slower than in-ground. Use large pots, premium potting mix, and liquid feed every 2–4 weeks.

Final Tip

Most Lilly Pilly hedges will quickly establish if planted in good soil, watered consistently, and fertilised with CompleteGrow All Purpose NPK 20-20-20. With the right care, expect 30–60cm of growth each year and a full hedge in just a few seasons.