Primrose tree, Pyramid tree, Cow itch tree, Itchy bomb tree
Lagunaria patersonia is an evergreen tree in the mallow family (Malvaceae), valued for its tolerance of coastal conditions and showy, hibiscus-like blooms. Native to Norfolk Island and Lord Howe Island, it typically forms a dense, pyramidal crown and reaches 6–15 m in height (smaller in containers). Leathery, elliptic leaves provide a neat, glossy backdrop to five-petaled flowers that open pale to rose-pink with a deeper eye, mainly in late spring to autumn in mild climates. Woody, pear-shaped capsules follow; inside are silky hairs that readily detach and cause intense skin, eye, and respiratory irritation—hence the common name “cow itch.” The species is drought- and salt-tolerant once established, suited to windbreaks, coastal streetscapes, and low-maintenance gardens in Mediterranean and subtropical regions. It prefers well-drained soils and full sun, responding well to light post-flowering pruning to maintain a tidy outline. Care is straightforward where winters are frost-free or only lightly frosty, but caution is required when handling fruits and spent pods to avoid exposure to the irritating fibers.
Water regularly during the first growing season to establish deep roots. Once established, it is drought-tolerant: provide a deep soak every 10–14 days in hot, dry weather and far less in cool seasons. Always allow the top few centimeters of soil to dry between waterings and avoid waterlogged conditions. Container plants dry faster—water when the top 2–3 cm are dry, ensuring excess drains freely. Mulch to conserve moisture, but keep mulch just clear of the trunk.
Provide full sun for best flowering—at least 6–8 hours of direct light daily. It will tolerate light, open shade, but expect sparser bloom and looser growth. Coastal exposure with bright sun and good air movement suits it well, and it handles salt-laden winds. Not suitable as a low-light indoor plant; if grown in a container, place outdoors in full sun for the growing season. Ensure young plants are hardened off to intense sun to prevent leaf scorch.
This species is not a heavy feeder. In the ground, apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring (e.g., 8–9 month 10-10-10) and refresh with compost mulch to maintain soil health. In containers, use a controlled-release fertilizer at potting and supplement with a half-strength, balanced liquid feed monthly during active growth. Avoid high nitrogen that encourages lanky growth and fewer flowers. If grown on alkaline soils, monitor for micronutrient deficiencies and correct with chelated iron or complete trace elements.
Ideal temperatures are 15–28°C. Once established, trees tolerate brief light frosts to about −2°C, but young plants are more tender; protect during cold snaps with frost cloth or move containers to shelter. Prolonged freezes will damage or kill foliage and branch tips. In heatwaves above 35–38°C, increase watering frequency and maintain mulch to buffer root temperatures. Overwinter container specimens in a bright, frost-free spot around 5–10°C if your region regularly drops below freezing.
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