Acmena smithii 'Forest Flame'Forest Flame Lilly Pilly

The Acmena smithii ‘Forest Flame’, or Forest Flame Lilly Pilly, is a fast-growing evergreen shrub or small tree admired for its vibrant, flame-red new foliage that matures to glossy green. It produces clusters of small, fluffy white flowers in spring and summer, followed by edible pink to purple berries that attract birds. Growing up to 3–5 meters tall, this hardy Australian native is perfect for hedging, screening, or as a feature plant in gardens and landscapes.

Low-maintenance and versatile, Forest Flame Lilly Pilly adds year-round color and texture to gardens.

Specifications:

• Height: 3–5 meters
• Width: 2–3 meters
• Native to: Australia
• Foliage: Glossy green leaves with vibrant red new growth; evergreen
• Growth rate: Fast

Conditions:

• Soil: Prefers well-drained soils; tolerates sandy, loamy, and clay types
• Light: Full sun to partial shade
• Water: Moderate; drought-tolerant once established
• Climate: Thrives in temperate, subtropical, and coastal regions

Additional Features:

• Flowers: Small, fluffy white blooms in spring and summer
• Fruit: Edible pink to purple berries that attract birds and wildlife
• Form: Dense, upright growth with a bushy habit
• Uses: Ideal for hedging, screening, borders, or as a feature plant
• Spacing: Plant 1–2 meters apart for dense hedging or 3–4 meters for standalone displays
• Low Maintenance: Requires minimal pruning; trim to shape or control size
• Pest Resistance: Naturally resistant to psyllid, making it a resilient choice
• Drought Tolerance: Performs well in low-water gardens once established
• Wildlife Attraction: Flowers and fruit attract bees, birds, and other pollinators
• Versatility: Complements formal, native, and tropical garden styles

The Forest Flame Lilly Pilly is a vibrant and adaptable plant, perfect for creating lush privacy screens, colorful hedges, and striking garden features.