Syzygium ‘Up and Away’ (Lilly Pilly)
Syzygium ‘Up and Away’ is a fast-growing, upright Lilly Pilly cultivar selected for its narrow growth habit and suitability for screening in tighter spaces. It is particularly useful where vertical height is required without excessive width, making it ideal for boundary planting and narrow garden beds.
The foliage is dense and glossy, with new growth emerging in soft bronze to reddish tones before maturing to deep green. This regular flush of colour adds subtle variation while maintaining a clean, structured appearance.
Key Features
Syzygium ‘Up and Away’ is valued for its naturally slender form, allowing it to create effective privacy screens in areas where space is limited. Its upright growth reduces the need for frequent pruning to control width.
It also offers good resistance to psyllids, resulting in smoother, healthier foliage compared to more susceptible varieties.
Small white flowers may appear in warmer months, followed by decorative berries, though these are often minimal when regularly pruned.
Growth Habit and Size
This cultivar grows in a narrow, upright form with dense vertical branching.
It typically reaches 5 to 8 metres in height if left unpruned, with a relatively narrow spread of approximately 1 to 2 metres. It can be maintained at lower heights for hedging or screening purposes.
Growth rate is fast under favourable conditions.
Care Requirements
Light
Performs best in full sun to partial shade. Full sun promotes denser growth and stronger colour in new foliage.
Watering
Requires regular watering during establishment. Once established, it is moderately drought tolerant but performs best with consistent moisture.
Water approximately 1–2 times per week depending on climate and soil conditions.
Soil
Adaptable to a wide range of soil types, provided drainage is adequate. Prefers soils enriched with organic matter.
Temperature and Climate
Suitable for temperate, subtropical, and coastal climates. It tolerates humidity and light frost once established.
Maintenance
Minimal maintenance required. Prune as needed to maintain height and shape. Its natural upright form reduces the need for frequent trimming.
Fertilising during the growing season supports healthy growth and foliage density. A general-purpose or native fertiliser is suitable.
Mulching helps retain moisture and improve soil conditions.
Common Issues
Generally low-maintenance with good pest resistance.
Occasional minor pest activity may occur but is rarely significant.
Yellowing leaves may indicate poor drainage or nutrient deficiency.
Applications
Syzygium ‘Up and Away’ is ideal for:
Narrow screening and privacy hedging
Boundary planting in tight spaces
Urban and courtyard gardens
Commercial landscapes
Formal and structured garden designs
Its upright, space-efficient growth makes it particularly useful where width is restricted.
Specification and Care Chart
| Attribute |
Details |
| Botanical Name |
Syzygium australe ‘Up and Away’ |
| Common Name |
Up and Away Lilly Pilly |
| Plant Type |
Evergreen shrub / small tree |
| Mature Height |
5 m to 8 m (unpruned) |
| Growth Habit |
Narrow, upright |
| Growth Rate |
Fast |
| Light Conditions |
Full sun to partial shade |
| Direct Sunlight |
Suitable |
| Watering Frequency |
1–2 times per week (more during establishment) |
| Soil Type |
Well-draining, adaptable |
| Drainage Requirement |
Essential |
| Temperature Range |
Temperate to subtropical |
| Frost Tolerance |
Light frost |
| Humidity |
Tolerant |
| Fertiliser |
General-purpose or native fertiliser |
| Maintenance Level |
Low |
| Pest Resistance |
Good (psyllid resistant) |
| Toxicity |
Not commonly regarded as toxic |
FAQ – Syzygium ‘Up and Away’
Is it suitable for narrow spaces?
Yes, it is specifically selected for its narrow, upright growth, making it ideal for tight areas.
How fast does it grow?
It has a fast growth rate under good conditions.
Does it need frequent pruning?
No, its natural shape reduces the need for regular trimming.
Is it psyllid resistant?
Yes, it has improved resistance compared to many older Lilly Pilly varieties.
How tall does it grow?
Up to 8 metres if unpruned, but commonly maintained lower.
Does it tolerate full sun?
Yes, it performs well in full sun and partial shade.
