A medium to large tree, originally from Norfolk and Lord Howe Island. A very adaptable tree for a wide range of soils, and can grow from tropical to warm temperate areas. It has attractive pink to mauve flowers in spring and early summer. Copes well with salt laden winds, so very useful for coastal areas, but needs care as the seed pods contain very irritant hairs, a trap for anyone curiously exploring the plant. It is not called the ‘itchy bomb tree’ for nothing! Once the pods open the irritant hairs are released and blown on the wind, and can cause complaints.
Lagunaria patersonia – Norfolk Island Hibiscus
Family : Malvaceae
Cultivar Name:
Plant Type : Small tree, Large tree
Width : 7
Flowering Time : Spring, Summer
Soil Type : Sandy, Loamy, Sandy loam, Clay loam, Saline, Poor soil
Climate Zone : Tropical, Sub-tropical, Warm temperate
Growth Habit : Evergreen
Soil Moisture : Well-drained
Special Uses :
Scientific Name: Lagunaria patersonia
Common Name : Norfolk Island Hibiscus
Height : 20
Flower Color : Pink, Mauve
pH Level : Acid, Neutral
Plant Environment : Coastal garden
Light : Sunny
Lifespan :
Frost Tolerance : Tolerates light frost
Attracts Wildlife :