How to Grow Lillypilly
Lillypilly
Acmena smithii
shrubAcmena smithii, commonly known as Lillypilly, is an evergreen shrub native to Australia valued for its attractive pink new foliage, fragrant white flowers, and decorative purple berries. It's a hardy, low-maintenance ornamental that makes an excellent hedge, screen, or specimen plant in warm climates. The plant is known for its dense growth habit and year-round visual interest.
When should you plant Lillypilly in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Lillypilly timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Lillypilly
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Lillypilly
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Lillypilly dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in USDA zones 9b-11, with best performance in zones 10-11
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Get my Lillypilly timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
3-6 monthsYoung plant 6-12 inches tall with fresh green foliage; developing root system
Water regularly to keep soil moist; provide afternoon shade in hot climates; protect from strong winds; mulch around base
Vegetative Growth
6-18 monthsPlant grows 12-36 inches; displays characteristic pink/reddish new growth; develops dense branching
Continue regular watering; prune lightly to encourage bushiness; apply balanced fertilizer monthly during growing season
Flowering
4-8 weeks, typically spring to early summerPlant produces delicate white to pale pink flowers in clusters (panicles); attracts pollinators with sweet fragrance
Maintain consistent moisture and sun exposure; do not over-fertilize with nitrogen which reduces flowering; deadhead spent flowers if desired
Fruiting
2-3 months following floweringSmall flowers give way to attractive purple to maroon berries; berries persist on plant for extended period
Reduce watering slightly; avoid pruning during fruit development; berries attract birds; continue regular feeding schedule
Mature
Ongoing, year after yearPlant reaches 6-12 feet tall and wide; produces abundant foliage, flowers, and berries annually
Prune annually after fruiting to maintain shape and size; reduce fertilizing to 2-3 times yearly; monitor for pests
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Inspect regularly; spray with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap; prune heavily infested branches; encourage natural predators
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Remove with alcohol-soaked cotton swab; spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; improve air circulation
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Increase humidity by misting; spray with water to dislodge; use miticide if severe; ensure adequate moisture
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Remove affected leaves; improve air circulation; avoid overhead watering; apply fungicide if widespread
Uses
Ornamental Hedging & Screening
HouseholdLillypilly's dense growth habit and attractive foliage make it ideal for creating hedges, privacy screens, and windbreaks. Its year-round visual interest, including pink new growth, white flowers, and purple berries, provides excellent aesthetic value in landscapes. [source]
Cut Flowers & Arrangements
HouseholdThe attractive berries and flowering branches make excellent additions to floral arrangements and decorative displays. The persistent berries and fresh foliage provide long-lasting material for both commercial and home arrangements. [source]
Bird & Pollinator Attraction
WildlifeThe fragrant white flowers attract bees and other pollinators, while the abundant purple berries provide important food for native birds and wildlife. Lillypilly is an excellent choice for supporting local ecosystems and creating bird-friendly gardens. [source]
Edible Berries
CulinaryThe dark purple berries are edible and can be consumed fresh or used in jams, preserves, and beverages. They have a mild, slightly sweet flavor with subtle apple-like notes. [source]
Traditional Indigenous Uses
MedicinalIn traditional Australian aboriginal and contemporary herbal medicine, Lillypilly leaves and berries have been used for their potential antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. The berries are valued in bush tucker cuisine. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Acmena smithii is an ornamental plant; berries are edible but typically harvested for decorative purposes. Pick ripe purple berries when fully colored for arrangements, or leave on plant for bird food and visual appeal. Foliage can be harvested for floral arrangements year-round.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Acmena smithii is native to rainforests and eucalyptus forests of eastern Australia and is named after New South Wales botanist John Smith.
- 🌱 The plant's common name 'Lillypilly' derives from Aboriginal language, reflecting its importance in traditional Australian cultures as both a food source and ornamental.
- 🌱 The dramatic pink-red new foliage is due to anthocyanin pigmentation that protects tender young leaves from UV radiation, providing a functional and aesthetic display.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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