Family: Bignoniaceae

Origin, Description & Uses:
Godmania aesculifolia, commonly known as cachillo, is a tropical tree native to Central America and parts of northern South America. It belongs to the bignonia family and is valued for its attractive, compound leaves and clusters of yellow, trumpet-shaped flowers that add ornamental appeal. The tree can reach moderate heights and is sometimes planted as a shade or landscape tree in tropical regions. In its native range, it has also been used locally for timber, light construction, and occasionally in traditional practices.

Risks & Threats:
Godmania aesculifolia is considered a low-risk species, with no significant evidence of invasiveness or aggressive spread outside its native range. It does not appear to reproduce rapidly or form dense stands that would displace native vegetation. While any introduced plant should be monitored for unexpected behavior, current information suggests that this species poses minimal ecological threat. As with all non-native plants, responsible planting and management are encouraged to help protect Hawaii’s unique ecosystems.

High Risk Traits:

• Broad climate suitability (dry/moist tropical forests; >1,000 m elevation)
  
• Native to tropical regions (Mexico to Brazil/Bolivia)
  
• Produces viable, wind-dispersed seeds (winged)
  
• Pollinated by common generalists (bees, wasps, butterflies)

Low Risk Traits:

• No naturalization, or weed history
  
• No spines, burrs, dense thickets, or parasitic traits
  
• Self-incompatible (requires cross-pollination)
  
• No bird, external animal, or gut-passage dispersal