This large tree has an erect trunk that becomes buttress with age and dark brown scaly bark. The spreading smooth branches form a dense crown with glossy green ovate leaves and the fluffy-like white flowers appear in summer, followed by purple berries.  

Hardiness zones 9 to 11

Acmena smithii is naturaly found in Australia growing on the east coast of New South Wales in rainforests along creeks in silty organic rich moist loams. In littoral rainforests it may be reduced to a small shrub that form a small  lignotuber at the base of the trunk. 

It grows in medium to heavy loam tolerating temporary inundation and prefers a sunny to semi-shaded wind protected position and is drought and frost resistant.

Lillypilly is grown for is upright spreading habit and its glossy green leaves. It is planted in large gardens and parks as a lawn specimen for shade or is used in rainforest settings in coastal and adjoining hillside regions. It establishes in 3 to 5 years and is long lived. This tree is also used in pots and tubs when young preferring a wind protected position. Smaller cultivars of the species are planted in domestic gardens for screening or as a specimen. ID 237

Acmena (ak-MEE-nuh) smithii (smith-e-eye)

“Acmena”, from the Greek word for “buxom” or “youthful”, referring to the flowers and fruits; “smithii” commemorates English botanical author Sir James Edward Smith.

Myrtaceae (mir-TAY-see-ee)
Myrtle, Eucalyptus, Clove and Guava Family