Family: Arecaceae

Origin, Description & Uses:
Heterospathe elata, commonly known as sagisi palm or palma brava, is a slender tropical palm native to the Caroline Islands, Maluku, New Guinea, and the Philippines. It typically grows in humid, lowland rainforests, where it develops a narrow trunk and a graceful crown of arching, feather-like fronds. This species is appreciated for its elegant, upright form and is used as an ornamental palm in tropical landscapes, gardens, and shaded urban plantings. Its tolerance for warm, moist conditions makes it especially suited to lush, rainforest-style settings.

Risks & Threats:
Although Heterospathe elata is not known to be naturalized in Hawaii, it does possess traits that are cause for concern. It may produce numerous seeds that can be dispersed by birds or other animals, increasing the likelihood of spread outside of cultivation. Its ability to grow in shaded, wet forest environments suggests it could establish in native ecosystems and potentially compete with native understory plants. Because of these characteristics, further evaluation is needed to determine whether this species could impact Hawaii’s unique ecosystems. Careful monitoring and cautious use are recommended to help prevent unintended spread.

High Risk Traits:

• Naturalized in Tahiti and possibly Guam (but may be native to this island)
  
• Thrives in tropical climates
  
• Possible environmental weed in Guam (may be excluding or outcompeting native vegetation)
  
• Form dense stand in Guam
  
• Tolerates many soil conditions (and potentially able to exploit many different habitat types)
  
• Shade-tolerant
  
• Fleshy-fruits adapted for bird and mammal dispersal

Low Risk Traits:

• Will only grow in warm, tropical climates
  
• Unarmed (no spines, thorns or burrs)
  
• Non-toxic
  
• Edible seed sometimes used as a substitute for betelnut
  
• Landscaping and ornamental value
  
• Slow growing for 3-4 years. Unlikely to reach maturity until after 4 years.