Family: Boraginaceae

Cordia monoica, commonly known as sandpaper saucer-berry or snot berry, is a small to medium-sized tree native to parts of Africa and the Middle East. It is easily recognized by its rough, sandpaper-like leaves, clusters of small white flowers, and distinctive sticky, saucer-shaped fruits. The tree is well adapted to dry, coastal, and arid environments, making it hardy in challenging conditions. In its native range, Cordia monoica has been used for shade, traditional medicine, and occasionally for its fruit, while its resilience and textured foliage also make it of interest as an ornamental or restoration plant in dry landscapes.

Although Cordia monoica is not currently known to be naturalized in Hawaiʻi, it possesses traits that are cause for concern in island ecosystems. Its tolerance of poor soils, drought, and coastal conditions, along with its ability to produce numerous fruits, suggests it could spread beyond cultivation if introduced more widely. On islands like Hawaiʻi, plants with these characteristics have the potential to displace native species and alter natural habitats. For these reasons, caution is recommended, and choosing native or clearly low-risk alternatives is encouraged to help ensure this species does not negatively impact Hawaiʻi’s unique environment.

High Risk Traits:

• Broad elevation range (>1000 m) and environmentally versatile
  
• Thrives in tropical climates
  
• Related species has become invasive
  
• Reaches maturity in 2 years
  
• Seeds dispersed by birds

Low Risk Traits:

• No evidence of naturalization or invasiveness elsewhere
  
• Unarmed (no spines, thorns or burrs)
  
• Fodder tree (palatable to browsing animals)
  
• Non-toxic
  
• Edible fruit
  
• Ornamental and medicinal value
  
• Not known to spread vegetatively