Family: Arecaceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Raphia farinifera (raffia palm, raphia) is native to tropical Africa, including the Comoros and northern and eastern Madagascar. It is a large, striking palm that typically grows in wet, lowland areas such as riverbanks and swamps. The plant is best known for its enormous, feathery leaves—the longest of any palm species—and its strong fiber, called raffia, which is harvested from the leaf sheaths. Raffia fibers are widely used for weaving, cordage, baskets, mats, hats, and horticultural ties. In its native range, it also plays an ecological role by providing habitat and food resources for wildlife and supporting wetland stability.

Risks & Threats
Although Raphia farinifera is not known to be naturalized in Hawaiʻi, it does possess traits that are cause for concern. Its ability to produce large quantities of seeds, thrive in wet tropical environments, and form dense stands in suitable habitats raises questions about its potential to spread if introduced. In island ecosystems like Hawaiʻi, plants adapted to wet lowland conditions can sometimes become aggressive competitors, potentially displacing native vegetation and altering habitat structure. Ongoing evaluation is needed to determine whether this species could negatively impact Hawaiʻi, and caution is recommended before planting or introducing it into the landscape.

High Risk Traits:

• Native to tropics
  
• Naturalized on islands (Réunion, Mauritius)
  
• Has spines on leaves
  
• Possibly shade tolerant
  
• Dispersed by water, birds, and animals (gut passage)
  
• Fire stimulates seed germination
  
• Slow to mature (>3 years)

Low Risk Traits:

• Not considered invasive
  
• No related invasive species
  
• Not widely introduced
  
• Non-toxic
  
• Narrow soil tolerance
  
• No prolific seed production or persistent seed bank