The Morphology of Fibres From the Seed Capsules of Norfolk Island Hibiscus, Lagunaria patersonia (Andrews) G.Don

This research note provides the first characterisation of the fibrous material in the seed capsules of Norfolk Island Hibiscus, Lagunaria patersonia , an Australian plant species known to cause severe skin irritation. Using scanning electron microscopy, the fibres were found to be smooth, acicular structures approximately 1.5 mm long and 50 µm wide, with notably sharp tips (<10 µm radius) and no surface ornamentation. Their geometry suggests the ability to easily penetrate human skin. These findings clarify the physical basis of irritation associated with this species and contribute to understanding its potential health risks and safe handling