🌿 Lilly Pilly Hedges – The Pros and Cons Explained by Tree Brothers

Lilly Pilly (Syzygium spp.) has become an increasingly popular choice for hedging in Auckland gardens — and it’s easy to see why. With vibrant green foliage, colourful new growth, and a dense form, Lilly Pilly hedges are both beautiful and functional.

At Tree Brothers, we’ve planted, shaped, and maintained plenty of Lilly Pilly hedges across the region. Here’s our expert view on the pros and cons of Lilly Pilly as a hedge, and what to consider before planting one.

🌱 What is Lilly Pilly?

Lilly Pilly is a fast-growing evergreen shrub native to Australia and widely grown in New Zealand. There are several varieties (such as Syzygium australe and Syzygium smithii) that work well as formal or informal hedges, often prized for their:

• Glossy green foliage

• Colourful red or copper new growth

• Dense screening ability

• Small berries (non-toxic) that attract birds

✅ Pros of Lilly Pilly Hedges

✔️ Fast-Growing and Dense

Lilly Pilly grows quickly and thickens up beautifully, providing excellent privacy and shelter with regular trimming.

✔️ Colourful New Growth

New flushes of red, copper, or bronze add colour and interest to your garden throughout the year.

✔️ Versatile and Shapable

Whether you prefer a soft natural screen or a crisp clipped hedge, Lilly Pilly responds well to regular trimming.

✔️ Tolerates a Range of Soils

With proper care, it can grow in sandy, loamy, or clay-rich soils. It’s reasonably drought tolerant once established.

✔️ Bird Friendly

Its small berries attract native birds, adding biodiversity to your outdoor space.

⚠️ Cons of Lilly Pilly Hedges

❌ Prone to Psyllid (Bumpy Leaves)

Lilly Pilly can suffer from psyllid damage — a common pest that causes bubbly or distorted foliage. Some newer cultivars are more resistant.

❌ Needs Regular Trimming

To keep it looking dense and neat, Lilly Pilly should be trimmed at least a few times per year during the growing season.

❌ Can Outgrow Small Spaces

Some varieties can become large if not kept in check. Choosing the right cultivar is key to avoiding future removals or heavy reductions.

❌ Needs Good Drainage

Lilly Pilly dislikes waterlogged soils and may struggle in poorly drained areas unless the soil is improved or raised.

Tree Brothers Tip: We can recommend psyllid-resistant cultivars and improve soil health using organic compost and mulch.

🌏 Our Holistic Approach to Lilly Pilly Hedge Care

At Tree Brothers, we go beyond the basics. Our hedge care plans for Lilly Pilly include:

• ✂️ Seasonal trimming for density and colour

• 🌿 Organic fertilising to boost vibrant foliage

• 🧪 Pest monitoring (especially psyllid) and eco-friendly control methods

• 🌱 Soil enrichment with compost teas and mulch

• 🔋 A shift toward battery-powered tools as we upgrade our equipment, reducing noise and emissions

📍 Where Lilly Pilly Works Best

• Urban fences and borders where privacy is needed

• Properties wanting year-round greenery and colour

• Gardens that can commit to regular hedge care

• Sunny to semi-shaded locations with decent airflow

📞 Need Help with Your Lilly Pilly Hedge?

Whether you’re planting new, battling pests, or need a reshape, Tree Brothers can help with:
✔️ Planting advice and cultivar selection
✔️ Regular trimming services
✔️ Organic fertiliser and soil conditioning
✔️ Psyllid-safe care plans
✔️ Free quotes Auckland-wide

👉 Contact us for Lilly Pilly hedge care or planting advice

Tree Brothers – Qualified Hedge Experts Serving Auckland
Sustainable Care | Practical Solutions | Local Knowledge