Family: Bignoniaceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Tabebuia pallida, commonly known as pale trumpet tree, is native to the Lesser Antilles in the Caribbean. It is a medium-sized deciduous to semi-evergreen tree prized for its attractive displays of pale pink to nearly white trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom when the tree is leafless, creating a striking ornamental display. Its graceful form, colorful blossoms, and tolerance of tropical conditions have made it a popular landscape tree in warm regions, including Hawaiʻi. It is commonly planted along streets, in parks, and in residential landscapes for its seasonal beauty and shade.

Risks & Threats
Tabebuia pallida is naturalized on Kauaʻi and Oʻahu and possesses traits that are cause for concern. It produces abundant wind-dispersed seeds that can establish beyond cultivation, allowing the species to spread into disturbed habitats and potentially compete with native vegetation. Because of its ability to reproduce and naturalize, continued planting could contribute to its expansion and negatively impact tropical island ecosystems. Since this species is already naturalized in Hawaiʻi, it is advisable to manage existing trees to prevent further spread and avoid planting it in areas where it is not yet widely established. When selecting trees for landscaping, consider choosing a low-risk or native alternative whenever suitable options are available.

High Risk Traits:

• Invasive in Mauritius, Rodrigues, Hawaii, Guam, Diego Garcia, and Kwajalein
  
• Forms dense, monospecific thickets that shade out natives
  
• Prevents regeneration of native shrubs and trees
  
• Fast-growing pioneer on grasslands, degraded soils, and slopes
  
• Produces hundreds of wind-dispersed, winged seeds per capsule
  
• Seeds accumulate in disturbed, weedy areas (curbs, fence rows)
  
• Widely cultivated and sold as ornamental (intentional introduction)
  
• Tolerates sandy, clay, loamy, acidic, and saline soils
  
• Readily pollinated by generalist bees (no specialist required)
  
• Reproduces easily by viable seed
  
• Limited species-specific herbicide/control protocols

Low Risk Traits:

• Lacks spines, thorns, or burrs
  
• No known toxicity to humans or animals
  
• No vegetative reproduction (seed only)
  
• No seed dispersal by birds or animals (wind only)