The Syzygium australe, commonly known as Lilly Pilly, is a beloved choice in Australian gardens for hedging and privacy screens. Two highly popular cultivars are Syzygium australe ‘Resilience’ and Syzygium australe ‘Select’. While both varieties are ideal for creating dense hedges, they have subtle differences that may influence your choice. Let’s dive into what sets them apart.
As its name suggests, Syzygium australe ‘Resilience’ is celebrated for its toughness and ability to thrive in various garden environments. It’s highly resistant to pests and diseases, including psyllid, which makes it a low-maintenance choice for many gardeners.
Mature Height
3m-5m tall
Recommended Spacing for Hedging/Screening
60cm-1m for a dense hedge, 1m-2m for a looser screen
Ideal Growing Conditions
Full sun to partial shade
Growth Rate
Moderate to fast
Leaf Shape
Oval-shaped leaves that create a softer, more rounded appearance
The oval leaves are one of the standout features of Resilience, giving it a fuller and softer look that’s perfect for informal, natural hedging. If you’re looking for a robust, adaptable plant with a relaxed,
easy-going appearance, this variety is a fantastic choice.
Equally as resilient as 'Resilience'; Syzygium australe ‘Select’ is for those who prefer a more formal, structured look in their garden and is an excellent option. This variety has an upright growth habit, making it ideal for a manicured, well-maintained hedge.
Mature Height
3m-5m tall
Recommended Spacing for Hedging/Screening
60cm-1m for a dense hedge, 1m-2m for a looser screen
Ideal Growing Conditions
Full sun to partial shade
Growth Rate
Moderate to fast
Leaf Shape
Pointier leaves for a more formal and structured appearance
The pointy leaves of Select give it a sharper, more defined look, and its upright growth habit makes it perfect for those who want a sleek and formal hedge. It’s a great fit for modern or minimalist garden designs where clean lines and structure are desired.
While both Syzygium australe ‘Resilience’ and Syzygium australe ‘Select’ share similar growth rates, heights, and spacing needs, the difference comes down to their appearance:
For a soft, natural look, go with Syzygium australe ‘Resilience’. Its oval leaves and slightly relaxed growth make it ideal for informal hedging.
For a more formal, structured hedge, choose Syzygium australe ‘Select’. Its pointy leaves and upright growth habit lend themselves to a sleek, manicured design.
Planting Location: Both varieties thrive in full sun to partial shade and prefer well-drained soil.
Watering: Regular watering is crucial during the establishment phase. Once established, they can tolerate dry conditions.
Pruning: Regular pruning will encourage bushy growth and help maintain the desired shape and height.
Fertilizing: Apply a slow-release fertilizer in spring to promote healthy growth.
For more information, check out our Lilly Pilly Care Guide.
You can use this Plant Spacing Calculator, to easily work out how many plants needed for your garden bed.
Whether you choose Syzygium australe ‘Resilience’ for its hardy, relaxed appearance or Syzygium australe ‘Select’ for its formal, structured growth, both varieties are excellent choices for creating privacy screens or hedges. With dense foliage, a moderate to fast growth rate, and adaptability to a range of conditions, these plants are ideal for any garden.
At Platypus Plants, we stock both Syzygium australe ‘Resilience’ and Syzygium australe ‘Select’, available for delivery across Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, and South East Queensland. Visit our online store today to find the perfect Lilly Pilly variety for your garden.
I purchased several Photinia Fraserii Red Robin plants and was impressed by their health and height. I also appreciated the helpful care card that provided guidance on planting and maintaining the plants. Marvin was great at answering my questions about how to space the hedge properly.
Two weeks later, my plants are thriving. I'm very happy to support your local business and will purchase from you again in the future.
Service and delivery were great. The two magnolia little gems I purchased are just beautiful. Mature and lush. I was lucky enough to have a bud in each as well which have started to flower. Marvin and Karli were lovely and super helpful and took the time to answer questions about my garden when they delivered my trees. I highly recommend Platypus Plants.
The service I got from the lovely couple was above and beyond! So friendly and personable
The plants arrived amazing and much bigger the I expected. It took awhile for them to settle in with all the rain we had but now are doing amazing! Very happy this company. Totally recommend
Cheers
O’ngelique
Again, the ordering, service, advice, and delivery has been top notch. These plants are now nestled between my previously purchased heliconias.
I was very happy with what I received.
This is only the start of my garden revitalization.
Elephant ears new growth, Frazer Island apple thriving.
Great service best friendly advice ever.
Love these two people!!
Awesome team and delivery service. This was my second amazing experience with Platypus Plants.
Perfect plants chosen and delivered at great prices. Thanks again until next time
Great service. Great healthy plants.
So nice to happy people in life trying to help a retired teacher improve his garden.5 stars!!!
Great service and quality of plants is fantastic
Thanks for the beautiful plant - so gorgeous and healthy :)
From the easy selection and ordering process, the great communication from the team and the efficient delivery... I'd certainly order plants from you again. A great local business.
Absolutely love how healthy looking these plants are , they were a really good size and the service was great. I honestly could not fault anything to do with my purchase. I will definitely purchase through Platypus Plants
Very healthy looking , great size and the service was exceptional. I will definitely purchase through you guys again
It was so easy to order and delivery was fast! I have planted them and now it’s up to me to keep them alive and healthy!
