Family: Scrophulariaceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Dermatobotrys saundersii is a tropical shrub native to southeastern Africa, including parts of South Africa and Eswatini. It is a member of the figwort family (Scrophulariaceae). This evergreen plant is prized for its bold, glossy green leaves and unusual tubular flowers that range from reddish to orange. The blooms often emerge directly from the leaf midrib or along older stems, giving the plant a distinctive and ornamental appearance. Dermatobotrys thrives in warm, humid climates with partial shade and well-drained soils, making it suitable for tropical and subtropical landscapes, shaded garden beds, and large containers. It is primarily cultivated as an ornamental for its attractive foliage and striking flowers.

Risks & Threats
Dermatobotrys saundersii is not known to be naturalized in Hawaiʻi, and there are no significant reports of invasiveness elsewhere. However, as a shade-tolerant shrub adapted to moist, forest-edge environments, it may possess traits that could allow it to persist in favorable conditions outside cultivation. Although there is currently no evidence that it poses ecological harm, continued monitoring and responsible planting are recommended to prevent potential escape into natural areas.

High Risk Traits:

• Elevation range exceeds 1000 m, demonstrating environmental versatility
  
• Thrives in tropical climates
  
• Possibly naturalizing on Oahu, Hawaiian Islands (confirmation needed)
  
• Latex highly caustic to the skin, possibly poisonous if ingested
  
• Tolerates many soil types
  
• Seeds dispersed by birds and intentionally by people
  
• Seeds able to be stored for extended periods; May form a persistent seed bank
  
• Able to coppice and resprout after cutting

Low Risk Traits:

• No reports of invasiveness or naturalization (with the possible exception of Oahu(), but no evidence of widespread introduction outside native range
  
• Unarmed (no spines, thorns or burrs)
  
• Provides fodder for livestock (palatable despite reports of toxicity)
  
• Ornamental
  
• Not reported to spread vegetatively
  
• Limited ecological information makes accurate risk prediction difficult