Syzygium australe ‘Select Form’, also known as Select Lilly Pilly, is a popular Australian native shrub valued for its dense, bushy habit and vibrant foliage. This is a psyllid-resistant cultivar, making it a reliable and low-maintenance choice for many gardens. It features glossy dark green leaves, with new growth emerging in a beautiful bronze hue. In summer, it produces fluffy white flowers, followed by decorative and edible purplish-red berries.
General Care & Usage Tips
- Position: Thrives in a full sun position but will happily tolerate part shade.
- Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. However, it’s quite adaptable and will tolerate most soil types once established.
- Watering: Water regularly while the plant is establishing itself. Once mature, it is quite drought-tolerant, but a good watering during extended dry periods will help it flourish.
- Fertiliser: Use a slow-release, low-phosphorus native fertiliser in early spring to encourage healthy growth.
- Pruning: Responds exceptionally well to pruning and shaping. For a tidy hedge, prune one to two times a year after the flowering or fruiting period. This encourages dense, compact foliage.
- Uses: ‘Select Form’ is a versatile plant, perfect for creating formal hedges, privacy screens, and topiary. It can also be grown in large pots or used as a feature plant in a garden bed.
