Norfolk Island Hibiscus | Rose Pink Flowering Evergreen Tree

Norfolk Island hibiscus

15 Gallon

$169.00

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Norfolk Island hibiscus

Lagunaria patersonia

A fast-growing, salt-tolerant tree with shimmering foliage and showy summer blooms, perfect for coastal gardens.

$169.00

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Bay Area–Based Nursery

We specialize in plants grown and delivered in their original pots and soil.
Because of their size and weight, our plants are not suitable for long-distance shipping and are delivered locally to ensure health and quality.

While delivery is limited to our local service area, we’re happy to support garden design and plant selection remotely.

For local plant professionals, we’re always glad to connect and explore ways to support your customers.

The Norfolk Island Hibiscus is a stately, fast-growing evergreen tree prized for its handsome foliage and showy, hibiscus-like summer blooms. Native to Australia and Norfolk Island, this upright, columnar to pyramidal tree features oval, olive-green leaves with silvery-gray undersides that shimmer in the breeze . In summer through early fall, it produces an abundance of solitary, cup-shaped flowers in soft rose-pink that fade to near-white as they mature, each with a striking, deep red central spot . The flowers are followed by brown, capsule-like seed pods that split open to reveal seeds surrounded by irritating, woolly fibers—a notable feature . Exceptionally tolerant of coastal conditions, salt spray, and drought once established, it is a superb choice for seaside gardens, street plantings, and as a striking vertical accent.

Knowing how we measure the size?

When browsing our plants, you may notice size terms such as Gallon, Multi, or Stand. These describe how a plant is grown, containerized, or structured at the time of sale — not just its height. Understanding these terms will help you choose the right plant for your space and expectations.

🌱 Gallon Size (Container Size)

Gallon refers to the size of the nursery container the plant is currently growing in (e.g. 1 Gallon, 5 Gallon, 15 Gallon).

A larger gallon size generally means:
- A more established root system
- A sturdier plant
- Faster visual impact after planting
Example:
- 5 Gallon: Ideal for residential gardens, easy to handle, good balance of value and maturity
- 15 Gallon: More mature, provides quicker results in the landscape

Note: Gallon size does not guarantee a specific height, as growth varies by species.

🌳 Multi (Multi-Trunk / Multi-Branch Form)

Multi indicates the plant has multiple trunks or main stems growing from the base.

Commonly used for:
- Ornamental trees
- Feature plants
- Japanese maples, olives, crepe myrtles, etc.
Why choose Multi:
- Fuller, more sculptural appearance
- Strong visual presence even at younger ages
- Popular for design-focused landscapes

🌲 Stand (Single-Trunk / Standard Form)

Stand (short for Standard) refers to a single, dominant trunk with a raised or naturally formed canopy.

Commonly used for:
- Shade trees
- Street trees
- Orchard and structural plantings
Why choose Stand:
- Clean, classic tree form
- Easier clearance for walkways and lawns
- Preferred for long-term structure and uniformity

🌿 Choosing the Right Size

If you want instant impact → larger Gallon, Multi form
If you want long-term structure → Stand form
If you want flexibility and value → mid-size Gallon containers

If you’re unsure which size or form fits your project, our team is happy to help you select the best option based on your space, timeline, and design goals.

Foliage & Flowers: Oval, olive-green leaves with silvery-gray, densely pubescent undersides; showy, cup-shaped, 2-3 inch flowers in rose-pink fading to white, with a prominent deep red center, blooming in summer to early fall; followed by brown seed capsules with irritating white fibers .
Mature Height: 20-30 ft (can reach 40-50 ft in ideal conditions)
Mature Spread: 10-20 ft
Growth Rate: Fast
Hardiness Zones: USDA 9-11 ; Sunset 13, 15-24
Light Requirement: Full sun
Core Benefits: Fast-growing, salt and wind tolerant, drought tolerant, attractive foliage, showy summer blooms, excellent for coastal gardens
Best Uses: Coastal landscapes, street tree, privacy screen, windbreak, specimen tree, parks, large gardens

Q: Is the Norfolk Island Hibiscus related to true hibiscus?
A: It belongs to the same family (Malvaceae) but is a different genus (Lagunaria). It is often called "hibiscus" due to its similar, showy flowers, though it is distinct from Hibiscus rosa-sinensis.

Q: What is the issue with the seed pods?
A: The seed pods contain fine, white, woolly fibers that are a potent skin and eye irritant. These "itchy pods" can cause significant discomfort if touched or if the fibers become airborne . It is best to plant this tree away from walkways, patios, and areas where children or pets play. Some gardeners remove spent flowers to prevent pod formation.

Q: How much water does it need?
A: Once established, it is highly drought-tolerant and requires little to no supplemental water in coastal climates . It thrives in well-drained soil and is sensitive to overwatering.

Q: Can it be used as a hedge or screen?
A: Yes, its fast growth, dense foliage, and columnar habit make it an excellent choice for privacy screens, windbreaks, and hedges. It can be pruned to maintain a desired height and shape .