Syzygium australe 'Big Red'
Big Red Lilly Pilly
The Syzygium australe 'Big Red', or Big Red Lilly Pilly, is a robust, evergreen shrub or small tree known for its dense, glossy green foliage and vibrant reddish-bronze new growth. Growing up to 4 to 5 metres, it's ideal for hedging, screening, or as a feature plant in a variety of landscapes. In spring and summer, it produces small white fluffy flowers followed by edible, red-pink berries, adding seasonal charm and wildlife appeal.
Hardy and low-maintenance, Big Red is well-suited for both formal and informal garden styles, providing year-round greenery and vibrant new foliage.
Specifications
- Height4 to 5 metres
- Width2 to 3 metres
- Native toAustralia
- FoliageGlossy green leaves with bronze-red new growth
- Growth rateFast
Conditions
- SoilPrefers well-drained soil; tolerates sandy, loamy, or clay types
- LightFull sun to partial shade
- WaterModerate; drought-tolerant once established
- ClimateThrives in temperate, subtropical, and tropical regions
Additional Features
- Flowers and BerriesWhite fluffy flowers followed by edible red-pink berries
- UsesIdeal for privacy screens, hedges, borders, or as a feature plant
- SpacingPlant 1.5 to 2 metres apart for dense hedging
- Low MaintenanceRequires occasional pruning to maintain shape and encourage new growth
- Pest ResistanceNaturally resilient with basic care
- Seasonal AppealEvergreen foliage with colourful new growth and berries for added interest
- VersatilitySuitable for formal gardens, urban courtyards, and rural properties
Big Red Lilly Pilly is a versatile and attractive shrub, perfect for creating lush, colourful hedges or standalone features in gardens and landscapes.