Waterhousia ‘Amaroo’ (Lilly Pilly)
Waterhousia ‘Amaroo’ is a dense, fast-growing Australian native cultivar selected for its improved structure, lush foliage, and suitability for hedging and screening. It is a refined form of Waterhousia floribunda, widely used in landscaping for creating tall, green boundaries and structured planting.
The foliage consists of elongated, glossy green leaves with a slightly softer, more pendulous appearance compared to tighter-leaved Lilly Pilly varieties. New growth emerges in lighter green tones, maintaining a consistent and uniform colour without strong red flushing.
Key Features
Waterhousia ‘Amaroo’ is valued for its strong, upright growth and ability to form a dense, continuous screen. It is particularly suited for large hedges where height and coverage are required.
It has improved resistance to psyllids compared to many Syzygium varieties, resulting in cleaner foliage and reduced maintenance.
The plant produces small white flowers in warmer months, followed by decorative berries, although these are often less noticeable when regularly pruned.
Growth Habit and Size
This cultivar develops into a tall, upright tree or large shrub with dense foliage.
It typically reaches 10 to 15 metres in height if left unpruned, with a spread of 4 to 6 metres. For hedging purposes, it is commonly maintained between 3 and 6 metres.
Growth rate is fast under favourable conditions, especially with adequate water and nutrients.
Care Requirements
Light
Performs well in full sun to partial shade. Full sun encourages denser growth and faster establishment.
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, increasing during hot periods.
Soil
Prefers well-draining, fertile soil but is adaptable to a range of soil types.
Temperature and Climate
Well suited to coastal, subtropical, and temperate climates. Tolerates humidity and can handle light frost once established.
Maintenance
Responds well to pruning and can be shaped into hedges, screens, or maintained as a feature tree. Regular trimming promotes dense growth.
Fertilising during the growing season supports vigorous growth and foliage health. A general-purpose fertiliser is suitable.
Mulching helps retain soil moisture and improve soil quality.
Common Issues
Generally low-maintenance with good pest resistance.
Yellowing leaves may indicate poor drainage or nutrient deficiency.
Reduced density may occur if grown in excessive shade.
Applications
Waterhousia ‘Amaroo’ is suitable for:
Tall hedging and privacy screening
Boundary planting
Large gardens and acreage
Commercial landscaping
Coastal and suburban environments
Feature tree planting
Its height and density make it particularly effective for large-scale screening projects.
Specification and Care Chart
| Attribute |
Details |
| Botanical Name |
Waterhousia floribunda ‘Amaroo’ |
| Common Name |
Amaroo Lilly Pilly |
| Plant Type |
Evergreen tree / large shrub |
| Mature Height |
10 m to 15 m (unpruned) |
| Growth Habit |
Upright, dense |
| 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, fertile, adaptable |
| Drainage Requirement |
Essential |
| Temperature Range |
Temperate to subtropical |
| Frost Tolerance |
Light frost once established |
| Humidity |
Tolerant |
| Fertiliser |
General-purpose during growing season |
| Maintenance Level |
Low to moderate |
| Pest Resistance |
Good |
| Toxicity |
Not commonly regarded as toxic |
FAQ – Waterhousia ‘Amaroo’
Is it suitable for tall hedging?
Yes, it is ideal for large hedges and privacy screens due to its height and dense growth.
How fast does it grow?
It has a fast growth rate under good conditions.
Does it resist psyllids?
Yes, it is generally more resistant than many Syzygium varieties.
Can it be pruned?
Yes, it responds well to pruning and shaping.
How tall does it grow?
Up to 15 metres if unpruned, but commonly maintained lower for hedging.
Does it tolerate full sun?
Yes, it performs well in full sun and partial shade.
