Family: Bignoniaceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Mansoa hymenaea, commonly known as membranous garlic vine, is a vigorous tropical woody vine native to Mexico, Central America, and parts of tropical South America. This attractive ornamental plant is valued for its clusters of showy lavender to purple trumpet-shaped flowers and glossy green foliage. Like other garlic vines, the leaves and stems may produce a garlic-like scent when crushed. It is commonly grown on fences, trellises, and arbors in tropical and subtropical landscapes, where it provides colorful floral displays and dense screening. The species is popular in gardens because it grows quickly, tolerates heat and humidity well, and attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Risks & Threats
Although Mansoa hymenaea is considered a low risk species, it is naturalized on Oʻahu, showing that it can spread beyond cultivation in Hawaiʻi’s climate. At present, there is little evidence that it causes significant ecological harm, and it is not regarded as highly invasive. However, as a fast-growing climbing vine, it may occasionally spread into disturbed areas or unmanaged vegetation if not maintained. Gardeners can help minimize any potential risks by monitoring growth, preventing unwanted spread, and disposing of plant material responsibly. When properly managed, membranous garlic vine can remain an attractive ornamental plant with relatively low environmental concern in Hawaiʻi.

High Risk Traits:

• Broad climate suitability (sea level to >1200 m)
  
• History of intentional introductions outside native range
  
• Climbing, smothering growth habit (liana)
  
• Produces viable seeds
  
• Propagules dispersed intentionally by people
  
• Wind-dispersed seeds
  
• Prolific seed production (small, numerous seeds)

Low Risk Traits:

• Limited naturalization (only occasional escape)
  
• Not an agricultural, environmental, or congeneric weed
  
• No spines, thorns, or burrs
  
• Non-toxic (used as garlic substitute and medicinally)
  
• Requires full sun (not shade tolerant)
  
• Wind dispersal only (not by water, animals, or birds)
  
• No persistent seed bank
  
• Sensitive to root disturbance