Syzygium francisii
Francis's Lilly Pilly
The Syzygium francisii, or Francis's Lilly Pilly, is a tall, evergreen Australian native tree known for its lush, glossy green foliage and vibrant pink to purple fruit. Growing up to 20 to 30 metres in its natural habitat, it can be maintained as a smaller feature tree or hedge in gardens and landscapes. In spring and summer, it produces small, fluffy white flowers that attract pollinators, followed by decorative, edible fruit that supports native wildlife. Its dense canopy and elegant form make it ideal for shade, screening, or as a specimen tree.
Hardy and adaptable, Francis's Lilly Pilly is perfect for native and ornamental gardens, offering beauty and ecological value.
Specifications
- Height10 to 20 metres (cultivated); up to 30 metres in the wild
- Width6 to 10 metres
- Native toAustralia (Queensland and New South Wales rainforests)
- FoliageGlossy green, lance-shaped leaves; evergreen
- Growth rateModerate to fast
Conditions
- SoilPrefers well-drained soils; tolerates sandy, loamy, and clay types
- LightFull sun to partial shade
- WaterModerate; drought-tolerant once established
- ClimateThrives in tropical, subtropical, and temperate regions
Additional Features
- FlowersSmall, fluffy white blooms in spring and summer
- FruitDecorative pink to purple berries; edible and wildlife-friendly
- FormDense canopy with upright growth and a rounded habit
- UsesIdeal for shade, screening, hedging, or as a feature tree
- SpacingPlant 3 to 5 metres apart for hedges or 8 to 10 metres for standalone displays
- Low MaintenanceMinimal pruning required; shape as desired when young
- Pest ResistanceGenerally resilient; monitor for psyllid in susceptible regions
- Drought TolerancePerforms well in low-water gardens once established
- Wildlife AttractionFlowers attract bees; fruit supports birds and other native fauna
- Erosion ControlEffective for stabilising slopes and rehabilitating degraded areas
- TimberSometimes used for cabinetry and small wood projects
- VersatilityComplements native, formal, and tropical garden styles
Francis's Lilly Pilly is a versatile and visually appealing tree, perfect for adding shade, privacy, and ecological benefits to gardens and landscapes.