Family: Lamiaceae
Karomia tettensis, commonly known as purple Chinese hatplant or northern Chinese-hat, is a small to medium-sized tree or large shrub native to eastern and southern Africa, including Mozambique, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe. It is valued for its attractive appearance, featuring glossy green leaves and showy, purple, hat-shaped flowers that bloom in clusters and attract pollinators. Because of its ornamental appeal and relatively compact size, Karomia tettensis has been planted in gardens and landscapes in tropical and subtropical regions as an accent or specimen tree.
At this time, Karomia tettensis is not known to be invasive or to pose significant ecological threats in Hawaiʻi. It does not have a documented history of aggressive spread, nor is it known to readily naturalize or displace native vegetation. However, as with many ornamental plants introduced from outside Hawaiʻi, continued monitoring is important. Some related ornamental species have shown unexpected invasive behavior over time, so caution is warranted, especially near natural areas. Responsible planting and avoiding spread into unmanaged landscapes can help ensure this species remains a low-risk ornamental choice.
High Risk Traits:
- Suited to tropical/subtropical climates
- Broad climate and soil tolerance
- History of human introduction outside native range
- Sold horticulturally (intentional dispersal)
- Produces viable seeds
- Tolerates pruning/mutilation
Low Risk Traits:
- Not naturalized, or weedy
- No invasive or congeneric weeds
- No spines, toxins, or fire risk
- Not a pest host or parasite
- No unintentional or animal dispersal
