Family: Urticaceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Pouzolzia guineensis, commonly known as Guinea pouzolzia or loko, is a fast-growing shrub or herbaceous plant native to tropical Africa and Madagascar. It typically grows in moist forests, disturbed areas, and along streambanks, producing soft green foliage and small inconspicuous flowers. In some regions, it has been used in traditional medicine, as forage, and occasionally as a groundcover or erosion-control plant due to its vigorous growth and ability to establish quickly in warm tropical environments.

Risks & Threats
Although Pouzolzia guineensis is not currently known to be naturalized in the Hawaiian Islands, it possesses several traits that raise concern for tropical island ecosystems. Its rapid growth, tolerance of disturbed habitats, and ability to spread in warm, wet conditions could allow it to compete with native vegetation and alter understory plant communities. Species that establish quickly in forests and riparian areas can be especially problematic in Hawaiʻi, where native ecosystems are highly sensitive to invasive plants. Because of these potential risks, Plant Pono recommends choosing a low-risk or native alternative whenever suitable options are available.

High Risk Traits:

• Grows in tropical climates
  
• A disturbance-adapted weed that may impact agriculture
  
• Other Pouzolzia species are weeds
  
• A host of the cotton stainer, Dysdercus superstitiosus, a pest of cotton, rice and peanuts
  
• Shade-tolerant
  
• Reproduces by seeds
  
• Reaches maturity in <1-2 growing seasons
  
• Gaps in biological and ecological information limit accuracy of risk prediction

Low Risk Traits:

• No reports of naturalization or introduction outside native range
  
• Despite weediness, also valued for edible and medicinal uses
  
• Unarmed (no spines, thorns, or burrs)
  
• Non-toxic
  
• Not reported to spread vegetatively