Family: Malvaceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Hibiscus macrophyllus is a medium to large tropical tree native to a wide region extending from Assam to southern China (Yunnan) and across western and central Malesia. It is recognized for its large, broad leaves and hibiscus-like flowers that give it strong ornamental appeal. In its native range, it occurs in lowland to lower montane forests and is sometimes planted as a landscape or shade tree in tropical areas because of its attractive foliage and tropical form.

Risks & Threats
In Hawaiʻi, this species is naturalized on Oʻahu and is currently placed in the Evaluate category. It has established outside of cultivation and shows traits that raise concern, including its ability to persist in managed and semi-wild environments. While it is not yet well studied in Hawaiʻi, its naturalization indicates potential to spread beyond intended plantings. Ongoing evaluation is needed, and caution is recommended to ensure that it does not negatively impact Hawaiʻi’s native ecosystems or compete with native vegetation.

High Risk Traits:

• Naturalized beyond native range (O'ahu)
  
• Has congeneric weeds
  
• Dispersed intentionally by people (ornamental)
  
• Produces viable seeds
  
• Possibly water-dispersed (seeds may float)

Low Risk Traits:

• Not an agricultural, environmental, or garden weed
  
• No spines, thorns, or burrs
  
• No toxicity or allelopathy reported
  
• No wind or bird dispersal adaptations
  
• No seed attachment for external animal dispersal