(Lagunaria patersoni), plant of the mallow family (Malvaceae), native to Australia and grown in warm temperate regions as an ornamental. Because of its shapely growth and regularly spaced branches, it is sometimes grown along avenues. The tree grows to about 15 m (50 feet) in height and has alternate oval or oblong leaves. The pale pink flowers are about 6 cm (2.5 inches) across.