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Top 5 Australian Native Plants for Hedges in Your Garden

When it comes to creating a beautiful, functional hedge in your garden, Australia’s diverse native flora offers a range of options that are not only stunning but also well-suited to our unique climate. Native plants provide a natural, low-maintenance solution for hedges while also supporting local wildlife and contributing to biodiversity. Whether you’re looking for privacy, structure or a burst of colour, here are the top five Australian native plants perfect for creating hedges in your garden.

1. Lilly Pilly (Syzygium smithii)

Lilly Pilly is a standout choice for a native hedge, thanks to its lush, glossy foliage and fast growth. It is highly versatile and can be trimmed to form a dense, formal hedge or left to grow naturally for a more informal look. In addition to its striking green leaves, Lilly Pilly produces clusters of fluffy white or cream flowers in spring and summer, followed by edible purple or pink berries. These berries are not only a treat for birds but can also be used to make jams and jellies.

• Height: Up to 3-5 metres (ideal for tall hedges).
• Benefits: Fast-growing, drought-tolerant and can be shaped easily.
• Care: Regular pruning encourages denser growth and it’s ideal for full sun to part shade.

2. Bottlebrush (Callistemon citrinus)

Known for its striking red, brush-like flowers, the Bottlebrush is a fantastic native hedge choice, bringing vibrant colour to any garden. Bottlebrush hedges are particularly attractive to birds and pollinators, thanks to the nectar-rich flowers. The plant’s fine-textured leaves provide a beautiful contrast and its resilience to tough conditions makes it ideal for Australian gardens.

• Height: 2-4 metres.
• Benefits: Tolerant of drought, wind and poor soil conditions. A magnet for wildlife.
• Care: Requires regular pruning to maintain a hedge shape and thrives in full sun.

3. Westringia (Westringia fruticosa)

Commonly known as Coastal Rosemary, Westringia is a hardy native plant perfect for low to medium hedges. It has soft, grey-green foliage and produces small, white or pale blue flowers throughout the year. Its compact growth habit makes it ideal for formal hedging and it is well-suited to coastal and drought-prone areas.

• Height: 1-2 metres.
• Benefits: Low-maintenance, drought and salt-tolerant and great for coastal gardens.
• Care: Light pruning helps maintain its shape and it prefers full sun to part shade.

4. Kangaroo Paw (Anigozanthos)

For a more unique and eye-catching hedge, Kangaroo Paw offers something truly special. Known for its vibrant, tubular flowers that resemble the paw of a kangaroo, this plant adds a bold, architectural element to gardens. Although it’s typically used as a feature plant, Kangaroo Paw can also be planted in clusters to create a striking, low hedge. It works well in modern or native-themed gardens.

• Height: 0.5-1.5 metres (best for low hedges).
• Benefits: Drought-tolerant, attracts birds and adds colour with minimal effort.
• Care: Prefers full sun and needs well-drained soil. Minimal pruning required.

5. Grevillea (Grevillea robusta and Grevillea ‘Robin Hood’)

Grevilleas are a beloved Australian native plant with many varieties suited to hedging. For example, Grevillea robusta (Silky Oak) can grow into a larger screen or windbreak, while compact varieties like Grevillea ‘Robin Hood’ are ideal for smaller, medium-height hedges. Grevilleas are known for their striking, spider-like flowers in shades of red, orange and pink — and they are loved by birds and bees alike.

• Height: 1-3 metres (depending on the variety).
• Benefits: Low water requirements, attracts wildlife and grows quickly.
• Care: Light pruning helps keep the hedge bushy and they prefer full sun with well-drained soil.

Choosing Australian native plants for your garden hedge not only adds natural beauty but also supports local ecosystems. From the fast-growing Lilly Pilly to the resilient Westringia, these plants offer a variety of textures, colours and wildlife benefits that make them perfect for hedging. With careful selection and minimal maintenance, you can create a lush barrier that thrives in Australia’s unique conditions while showcasing the best of the country’s natural flora.

For all plant enquiries and availability, please contact: Nursery Manager – Richard Burrell T +61 421 111 419 or E richard.burrell@murumittigar.com.au.