Cow Itch Tree

Lagunaria Patersonii

Design with this plant

Overview

The Cow Itch Tree (Lagunaria patersonii), also known as the Norfolk Island hibiscus or pyramidal tree, is an eye-catching evergreen. Reaching heights of 40-50 feet with a spread of 10-15 feet, it thrives in USDA zones 9-11 and sports showy pink blossoms. Caution: its seed pods contain irritating fibers. Prefers full sun to part shade and well-draining soil. Drought-tolerant once established, making it a resilient choice for warm, arid regions.

Sun FullWater LowZones 9–10

Cow Itch Tree (Lagunaria Patersonii) — Reaching heights of 40-50 feet with a spread of 10-15 feet

Culture

Sun: Full
Water: Low
USDA zones: 9–10

Shape & size

Classification

Family: Malvaceae

See full data, regional cultivation notes, full-resolution photos, and design tools. Build a client presentation around this plant.

Start your 14-day trial

Photos (53)

Cow Itch Tree (Lagunaria Patersonii) — hence the common name "Cow Itch Tree."<br><br>Preferring full sun to partial shade; lagunaria patersonii thrives in

Cow Itch Tree (Lagunaria Patersonii) — making it suitable for coastal environments; caution: its seed pods contain irritating fibers

Cow Itch Tree (Lagunaria Patersonii) — Its tolerance for wind and moderate drought resistance render it an excellent choice for a variety of settings; this

Cow Itch Tree (Lagunaria Patersonii) — which will promote healthy development and reduce the need for future pruning; hence the common name "Cow Itch

Cow Itch Tree (Lagunaria Patersonii) — Lagunaria patersonii thrives in well-drained soils and is salt-tolerant; tree with pink blooms

Related plants

Blacknight Hollyhock (Alcea Rosea 'Blacknight') — commonly known as Blacknight Hollyhock

Blacknight Hollyhock

Alcea Rosea 'Blacknight'

Full · Zones 3–10

Thuringian Mallow (Lavatera Thuringiaca) — The Tomentose Tree Mallow, Lavatera thuringiaca, is a hardy, herbaceous perennial with striking pink blooms

Thuringian Mallow

Lavatera Thuringiaca

Full · Zones 8–10

Red Mallow (Pavonia Missionum) — Red Mallow (Pavonia missionum) is a vibrant, herbaceous perennial that thrives in full sun to partial shade

Red Mallow

Pavonia Missionum

Full · Zones 7–11

Giant Turk's Cap, Wax Mallow (Malvaviscus Arboreus) — or Wax Mallow (Malvaviscus arboreus)

Giant Turk's Cap, Wax Mallow

Malvaviscus Arboreus

Full · Zones 9–10

Tree Mallow (Lavatera Maritima) — The Mediterranean Tree Mallow (Lavatera maritima) is a fast-growing

Tree Mallow

Lavatera Maritima

Full · Zones 8–10

Thompson Flowering Maple (Abutilon Pictum 'Thompsonii') — Thompson Flowering Maple (Abutilon pictum 'Thompsonii') dazzles with variegated

Thompson Flowering Maple

Abutilon Pictum 'Thompsonii'

Half · Zones 9–10