Family: Iridaceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Moraea ochroleuca, commonly known as cape tulip, is a flowering plant native to the western and southwestern Cape Province of South Africa. It produces pale yellow, iris-like flowers and grows from underground corms that help it survive dry conditions. Because of its attractive blooms and drought tolerance, it has been cultivated as an ornamental plant in warm climates.

Risks & Threats
Although Moraea ochroleuca is not currently known to be naturalized in the Hawaiian Islands, it possesses traits that are cause for concern and could negatively impact tropical island ecosystems. It can spread through both corms and seeds, potentially forming dense stands that displace other vegetation. Species in this group are also toxic to livestock. Choosing a low risk or native alternative is recommended whenever suitable options are available.

High Risk Traits:

• History of repeated introductions & naturalized outside native range
  
• Congeneric weeds
  
• Unpalatable to grazers; toxic to animals & humans
  
• Host for pests/pathogens
  
• Shade tolerant
  
• Propagules dispersed unintentionally or intentionally by people
  
• Tolerates mutilation, cultivation, or fire

Low Risk Traits:

• No spines, burrs, or thorns
  
• No fire hazard or dense thickets
  
• Not climbing or smothering
  
• Requires specialist pollinators (limits spread)