What are the best Lilly Pilly psyllid resistant varieties to grow?
Syzygium or Acmena is the genus for this common Australian shrub known as Lilly Pilly. This article outlines treatment options and best species for various locations and requirements in the garden. 
 
How to treat Lilly Pilly for Psyllid damage:
Psyllid damage is more prevalent in the softer leaf forms of Syzygium and Waterhousia. The common Acmena species of Lilly Pilly have a more harsh, toughened leaf, which is not as attractive to this tiny insect. 
In recent years there has been many new releases and improved forms of Syzygium released.  One of the key reasons new, improved species have been released is to combat psyllid foliage damage.  Many of the older species were not resistant to this insect and suffered from the bubbly, disfigured leaf.  Initially, this was treated with systemic chemicals and root treatment such as confidor.  However, this product is no longer available as it is harmful to important pollination insects such as bees. 
If you notice bubbly foliage on your Lilly-pilly,  the best course of action is vigorous pruning of all affected areas,  then light and regular spraying with white oil,  and of course, keep your plant moist and healthy with regular liquid fertilising.
 
What are Psyllids?


Mature psyllids are up to 5mm long and are actually tiny sap-sucking insects.
The female psyllid inserts a yellow oval shaped egg into the edge of the new leaves after mating has occurred.  Tiny, immature nymphs hatch from the eggs and move to the fresh new lush foliage, where they feed and develop into pimple galls which are formed by the plant’s response to the psyllids feeding.
 
The excessive formation of these galls creates the common damage of distorted and severely blistered leaves, leaving shoots to appear stunted. Nymphs leave a residue in the form of tiny white pellets, some of which collects on foliage and becomes blackened from sooty mould growth.

    




What is the best Psyllid resistant Lilly Pilly forms?
As previously mentioned the Acmena forms are virtually psyllid free because of the harsh, thickened foliage.  Best Acmena species to consider:
Acmena Speedscreen
Acmena Cherry Surprise
Acmena Firescreen
Acmena smithii minor Dwarf Lilli Pilly
Acmena smithii Lilly Pilly

For the best Syzygium forms for medium size hedging consider the following:
Syzygium Resilience
Syzygium Backyard Bliss
Syzygium Hinterland Gold
Syzygium Obelisk 
If you are looking for lower lilly pilly species for border planting then consider these varieties:
Syzygium Winter Lights
Syzygium Bush Christmas
Acmena Allyn Magic

For further advice on Lilly Pilly's or any other gardening questions contact Online Plants