- Mature height
- 4m to 5m
- Mature width
- 2m to 3m
Acmena smithii 'Firescreen' is a fast-growing Australian native lilly pilly selected for its brilliant red new growth, which flushes repeatedly through the warmer months against dense glossy green mature foliage. As an Acmena it is naturally resistant to psyllid, so the foliage stays clean without spraying.
'Firescreen' grows to 4 to 5 metres tall and 2 to 3 metres wide with a naturally dense upright habit that fills in from ground level. Growth is quick at 50 to 90 centimetres per year once established, which makes it one of the faster ways to build a solid privacy screen along a boundary or between neighbouring houses.
'Firescreen' performs across most of the Australian east coast and southern states, from tropical Queensland through to Melbourne and Adelaide. It handles full sun to part shade, tolerates light to moderate frost once established, and responds well to trimming, so it can be run as a loose screen or clipped into a formal hedge.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Acmena smithii 'Firescreen'
How tall does Acmena smithii 'Firescreen' grow?
'Firescreen' grows to 4 to 5 metres tall and 2 to 3 metres wide when left unpruned. It is easily maintained at 2 to 3 metres as a trimmed hedge, and holds its density right down to ground level.
How fast does 'Firescreen' grow?
'Firescreen' is fast-growing, adding 50 to 90 centimetres per year once established. In good soil with regular water through the first two summers it will form a usable screen within two to three years.
Is 'Firescreen' psyllid resistant?
Yes. 'Firescreen' is an Acmena, and Acmena species are naturally resistant to the psyllid that causes pimple-like galls on many Syzygium lilly pillies. This is the main reason it is chosen for large hedge runs.
How far apart should I plant 'Firescreen' for a hedge?
Plant 1 to 1.5 metres apart for a dense informal screen, or 80 centimetres apart for a tighter formal hedge. For an avenue effect allow 3 metres between plants.
Is 'Firescreen' frost tolerant?
'Firescreen' handles light to moderate frost once established. In colder inland districts protect young plants through their first winter, after which they harden off and cope with regular frost.
Where does 'Firescreen' grow best in Australia?
'Firescreen' performs from tropical and subtropical Queensland through coastal and inland New South Wales, Melbourne and surrounds, Gippsland, the Western District and Adelaide. It is one of the more climate-adaptable lilly pillies.
When and how should I prune 'Firescreen'?
Trim two to three times through the growing season to build density and keep lines crisp. Each cut triggers a fresh flush of red new growth, so regular light pruning gives more colour rather than less.
