Family: Myrtaceae
Origin, Description & Uses
Eucalyptus pellita, commonly known as red mahogany, is a fast-growing tree native to northeastern Australia and parts of Papua New Guinea. It is a tall, straight-trunked species with rough, fibrous bark and a broad, leafy canopy. The tree produces white flowers and woody seed capsules typical of eucalyptus species. Red mahogany is widely planted in tropical and subtropical regions for timber production, as its dense, durable wood is valued for construction, flooring, and pulpwood. It is also used in reforestation and plantation forestry due to its adaptability to a range of soils and climates.
Risks & Threats
Eucalyptus pellita is considered low risk in Hawaii, with little evidence of aggressive spread or naturalization. While it shares some traits with other eucalyptus species—such as rapid growth and the ability to thrive in disturbed areas—it has not demonstrated significant invasive behavior in the islands. However, as with many non-native trees, it may still compete with native vegetation if planted near natural areas, and its leaf litter can influence soil conditions. Responsible planting and monitoring are recommended, but overall this species is not currently known to pose a major threat to Hawaii’s ecosystems.
High Risk Traits:
- Congeneric weed (other Eucalyptus species are invasive)
- Host for pests and pathogens (Cylindrocladium, Ralstonia solanacearum)
- Tolerates a wide range of soil conditions
- Produces viable seed
- Hybridizes naturally with other Eucalyptus species
- Self-compatible (capable of self-fertilization)
- Propagules dispersed intentionally by people
- Propagules adapted for wind dispersal
- Coppices and resprouts after fire or cutting
Low Risk Traits:
- No evidence of naturalization
- No evidence of weediness
- Lacks spines, thorns, or burrs
- Non-toxic and non-allelopathic
- Does not form dense thickets
- No vegetative reproduction
- No evidence of water, bird, or animal-assisted dispersal
