Family: Asparagaceae

Asparagus falcatus (sicklethorn) is a tough, climbing shrub native to Africa and parts of Asia. It produces long, arching stems covered in sharp thorns and small, spiny “leaves” that are actually modified stems called cladodes. Sicklethorn is sometimes cultivated as an ornamental or used as a living barrier because of its dense, thorny growth. It produces small, white flowers followed by bright red berries that attract birds, which can spread the seeds over long distances.

In Hawai‘i, Asparagus falcatus has not been confirmed as naturalized, though it appears to be potentially naturalizing on O‘ahu. This species can form dense, spiny thickets that smother surrounding plants and make removal difficult. Its hardy nature, aggressive climbing habit, and ability to spread by both vegetative growth and seed raise concerns about its potential to become invasive. Because of these traits, sicklethorn is considered high risk and not recommended for planting in the Hawaiian Islands.

High Risk Traits:

• Naturalized outside native range (e.g., Australia)
  
• Congeneric species are serious weeds
  
• Has sharp, hooked spines
  
• Climbing/smothering growth habit
  
• Tolerant of shade
  
• Tolerates a wide range of soils
  
• Reproduces from tuberous roots (geophyte)
  
• Produces viable seeds
  
• Seeds bird-dispersed
  
• Seeds survive gut passage
  
• Intentionally spread by horticulture

Low Risk Traits:

• Not a significant agricultural weed
  
• Not a major environmental weed (yet)
  
• Not a significant pest or disease host
  
• Not a prolific seed producer