Family: Rubiaceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Portlandia grandiflora, commonly known as bellflower or campana grande, is a tropical flowering shrub native to Jamaica. It is admired for its large, trumpet-shaped white flowers that can be highly fragrant and especially showy in the evening. This attractive ornamental plant has glossy green foliage and a compact growth habit, making it well suited for tropical gardens, shaded landscapes, patios, and botanical collections. Its dramatic blooms and rarity in cultivation make it especially valued by collectors of Caribbean and tropical plants.

Risks & Threats
This species is considered low risk for Hawaii. Portlandia grandiflora is not known to spread aggressively or invade natural ecosystems, and it has not demonstrated significant invasive tendencies in tropical island environments. While any non-native species should be monitored when introduced into new areas, current evidence suggests this plant poses minimal ecological threat. Gardeners should still practice responsible planting by preventing unwanted spread and avoiding cultivation near sensitive native habitats.

High Risk Traits:

• Native to tropics (Jamaica)
  
• Shade tolerant (possible)
  
• Tolerates limestone soils
  
• Sold commercially outside native range

Low Risk Traits:

• Not a weed elsewhere
  
• No spines, thorns, or burrs
  
• Non-toxic (humans & animals)
  
• No fire hazard
  
• No dense thickets
  
• Difficult seed propagation
  
• Limited dispersal (capsule fruit)