Acmena smithii (DOW30) PBR SUBLIME tm

Description:
Acmena smithii 'Sublime' is a compact and fast-growing evergreen shrub prized for its vibrant lime-green foliage. This Australian native is well-suited for hedging, topiary, or as a stand-alone feature plant in gardens or containers. It boasts a dense, bushy form and can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. It has a natural ability to resist psyllid, making it a reliable choice for low-maintenance landscapes.

Flowers:
Small, fluffy white flowers appear in spring and early summer, adding seasonal interest. These blossoms are subtle but attract pollinators like bees.

Foliage:
The standout feature of Acmena smithii 'Sublime' is its striking lime-green foliage, which maintains its brightness year-round. The leaves are oval-shaped, glossy, and slightly pointed, creating a lush appearance. New growth emerges a vibrant lime color, gradually maturing into a rich green.

Fruit:
Following the flowering season, small, fleshy berries may develop. These berries are typically white to pale pink and are non-toxic, making them safe for children and pets. However, the fruiting is not a dominant feature of this cultivar.

Form and Size:
This cultivar has a naturally compact and upright form, reaching heights of 3-4 meters and widths of 1.5-2 meters. With regular pruning, it can be maintained at a desired size, making it ideal for formal hedging.

Growing Conditions:
Acmena smithii 'Sublime' thrives in full sun to part shade and is adaptable to various soil types, provided they are well-drained. It is highly drought-tolerant once established and can withstand light frost. It is also moderately tolerant of salt-laden winds, making it suitable for coastal gardens.

Uses:
'Sublime' is perfect for creating dense hedges, screening plants, or privacy borders due to its fast growth and compact form. It also works well as a feature plant in containers or formal garden designs. Its bright foliage adds colour contrast to green-dominated landscapes.

Maintenance:
Low-maintenance and easy to care for, this plant only requires occasional pruning to maintain its shape and size. Mulch around the base to conserve moisture and keep the roots cool. Fertilize in spring to encourage new growth.

Notes:
Resistant to psyllid attacks, making it a superior choice over other lilly pilly varieties prone to leaf distortion from pests. The bright lime-green color provides excellent contrast in garden designs.

Companion Plants:
Pairs well with contrasting dark green or purple-leafed plants such as Loropetalum chinense, Coprosma repens, and Pittosporum tenuifolium. It also complements native Australian grasses like Lomandra and other drought-tolerant shrubs.

Common Name: Lilly Pilly 'Sublime'
Botanical Name: Acmena smithii (DOW30) PBR Sublime™
Family: Myrtaceae
Origin: Australia

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