Syzygium australe 'Cherry Bomb'Cherry Bomb Lilly Pilly

The Syzygium australe ‘Cherry Bomb’, or Cherry Bomb Lilly Pilly, is a compact, evergreen shrub renowned for its dense, glossy foliage and vibrant red new growth. In spring and summer, it produces fluffy white flowers followed by small, edible red berries that attract birds and wildlife. Growing to a manageable height of 2–3 meters, this hardy shrub is ideal for hedging, screening, or as a feature plant in gardens and containers.

Low-maintenance and fast-growing, Cherry Bomb is perfect for adding vibrant color, privacy, and year-round greenery to landscapes.

Specifications:

• Height: 2–3 meters
• Width: 1.5–2 meters
• Native to: Australia
• Foliage: Glossy green leaves with bright red new growth; evergreen
• Growth rate: Moderate to fast

Conditions:

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

Additional Features:

• Flowers: Fluffy white blooms in spring and summer
• Berries: Edible red berries that attract birds and wildlife
• Uses: Ideal for hedging, screening, borders, or as a feature plant in containers
• Spacing: Plant 1–1.5 meters apart for dense hedges or 2–3 meters for individual displays
• Low Maintenance: Requires light pruning to shape and encourage dense growth
• Pest Resistance: Hardy; monitor for psyllids in susceptible areas
• Drought Tolerance: Suitable for water-wise gardens once established
• Versatility: Complements native, formal, and contemporary garden styles

The Cherry Bomb Lilly Pilly is a vibrant and versatile shrub, perfect for creating privacy, supporting wildlife, and adding color to gardens and landscapes.