The Norfolk Island Hibiscus (Lagunaria patersonia) is native to Norfolk Island, Lord Howe Island and Queensland. It is commonly known as White Oak on Norfolk Island. It is also known as Cow-itch as it’s seed capsules are filled with irritating hairs.
This is a commonly occurring, large and spectacular tree on Norfolk Island. It can grow to more than 20 metres tall. Well distributed over the Island and on coastal areas its branches are windswept according to the contour of the land. It belongs to the Hibiscus family.
Its pink and mauve coloured flowers fade to white with age and have a waxy texture. Watch out for the seed pods which contain sharp hairs that can irrirtate your skin.