Description

General aspect and origins - Lagunaria patersonii is also known as Hibiscus patersonii, Solandra squamea, cow itch tree, primrose tree or Norfolk island hibiscus. It is native to Australia, and more precisely to the Norfolk island and to Queensland. This medium-sized tree is a slow grower. In early summer, it is covered with waxy pink flowers.
Leaves - Leaves are evergreen, entire, shiny, leathery, and up to 3-4 in (7.5-10cm) long. They are olive-green on the upper face and have a paler grey-green color beneath.
Flowers - Flowers appear in late spring or early summer. They are solitary, pink, waxy, with 5 petals, and show many features of the Malvaceae familly.
Fruits - Seedpods are inedible capsules that may be skin-irritating.

Culture

Lagunaria patersonii is a small tree with ornamental flowers, even if the blooming period is a little short. It is generally an easy grower, and tolerates salted winds. It is not very frost hardy, however, it can withstand temperatures down to about 23°F (-5°C) and can thus be grown in sheltered places of USDA zones 9b and warmer.
Soil - This tree likes well-drained ground, and once fully established, can withstand occasional droughts.

Propagation

This plant can be propagated by seeds or by cuttings.