Family: Anacardiaceae

Origin, Description & Uses:
Harpephyllum caffrum, commonly known as wild plum, is an evergreen tree native to southern Africa, particularly coastal regions of South Africa. It typically grows as a medium to large tree with a dense, rounded canopy and glossy, dark green leaves that often turn attractive shades of red before dropping. The tree produces small, reddish-purple plum-like fruits that are edible and enjoyed fresh or used in jams and jellies. Wild plum is widely planted as an ornamental and shade tree due to its attractive foliage, manageable growth, and tolerance of coastal conditions. It is also valued in traditional medicine and as a habitat tree that supports birds and other wildlife.

Risks & Threats:
Wild plum is considered a low-risk species in Hawaii and other tropical regions. While it produces edible fruits that can be dispersed by birds, it has not shown significant invasive tendencies or widespread naturalization. The tree generally remains where it is planted and does not aggressively outcompete native vegetation. As with any introduced species, monitoring is recommended to ensure it does not spread beyond intended areas, but overall, Harpephyllum caffrum is regarded as a safe and beneficial choice for landscaping.

High Risk Traits:

• Naturalized beyond native range (e.g., Australia’s Wet Tropics)
  
• Tolerates poor soils and dry conditions
  
• Reproduces by viable seeds
  
• Intentionally dispersed by people (ornamental/street tree)
  
• Bird-dispersed (propagules eaten by multiple bird species)
  
• Seeds survive gut passage
  
• Tolerates pruning (benefits from mutilation)

Low Risk Traits:

• No spines, thorns, or burrs
  
• Palatable to grazing animals
  
• No vegetative fragmentation in nature
  
• No wind or external animal dispersal
  
• No prolific seed production (large single-seeded drupes)
  
• Dioecious (requires male and female trees)