Syzygium australe 'Straight & Narrow' - Lilly Pilly

Height Guide

30cm/33cm Pot: Approx 0.8m - 1.4m tall 

40cm/45L Pot: Approx 1.3m - 2m tall

50cm/70L pot: Approx 1.5 - 2.2m tall

100L: Approx 1.8m - 2.6m

200L Approx 2.5m - 3m

Why Choose This Tree for Your Landscape?

Ultra-Narrow, Upright Growth Habit – Perfect for tight spaces, narrow hedging, and screening in small gardens or along fences.

Dense Evergreen Foliage – Provides year-round privacy with lush, dark green leaves that maintain a compact form.

Fast-Growing & Low Maintenance – Establishes quickly and requires minimal care to retain its vertical shape.

Psyllid Resistant – Naturally resistant to psyllid pests, keeping the foliage clean and healthy.

Seasonal Flowers & Edible Berries – Produces white fluffy flowers in spring and summer, followed by red berries that attract birds and wildlife.

Drought, Heat & Coastal Hardy – Thrives in varied conditions, including dry climates, urban areas, and coastal gardens.

Optimal Soil Conditions

• Rich, well-drained soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged.
• Ideal balance between moisture retention and drainage for healthy growth.

Sandy Soils

• Offer excellent drainage, crucial for root health.
• Mix in plenty of organic matter to improve nutrient and moisture retention.
• Increase watering frequency, as sandy soils dry out quickly.

Clay Soils

• Naturally nutrient-rich and moisture-retentive.
• Amend with gypsum and organic matter to improve drainage.
• Consider raised beds or mounded planting to enhance drainage.

Loamy Soils

• Ideal for Lilly Pillies, balancing moisture retention and drainage.
• Enhance annually with organic compost to maintain fertility.
• Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Chalky Soils

• Typically well-draining and may be alkaline.
• Enrich with organic matter to improve fertility and moisture retention.
• Add elemental sulfur if necessary to adjust soil pH to more suitable levels.
• May require more frequent irrigation due to quick drainage.

pH Preferences

• Prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0 to 7.0).
• Test soil pH and adjust to enhance nutrient availability and plant health.

General Planting Tips

• Ensure soil is loose and friable to encourage root expansion.
• Incorporate slow-release fertilizer at planting for a healthy start.
• Regularly check soil moisture and pH, adjusting care as needed.

Caring for Syzygium australe 'Straight & Narrow':

• Water regularly, especially during extended dry periods, to establish a deep, extensive root system.
• Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
• Prune as needed to maintain the columnar shape and promote a dense growth habit.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• When is the best time to plant 'Straight & Narrow' Lilly Pilly?
  Planting in early spring or fall is ideal, allowing the plant to establish before extreme weather conditions.
• How often should I water my 'Straight & Narrow' Lilly Pilly?
  Regular watering is important, especially during the first few years of growth and in periods of drought.
• Is 'Straight & Narrow' Lilly Pilly susceptible to any pests or diseases?
  While generally robust, it can be susceptible to pests like psyllids. Choosing resistant varieties and providing proper care can help minimize issues.
• Can 'Straight & Narrow' be used for topiary?
  Yes, its dense growth and upright habit make it suitable for shaping into various topiary forms.
• What makes 'Straight & Narrow' different from other Lilly Pilly varieties?
  Its unique columnar growth habit, suitability for narrow spaces, and ease of maintenance make it a favored choice for urban and contemporary landscapes.