Family: Vitaceae

Bandicoot Berry is a small tree that spreads from initial plantings. It has an extensive native range in tropical Asia and thrives in tropical climates such as Hawaii. Imported by Joseph Rock and planted in the Lyon arboretum in 1931, adventive seedlings were documented only 12 years later. Today there are naturalized populations on Hawaii Island and possibly Oahu. As an understory tree, it can grow in shade. The plump purplish-black fruit each contains up to six seeds which are bird-dispersed. Prevention is best with invasive species. Bandicoot Berry should not be cultivated in Hawaii. 

Description and Dispersal:

• A small treelet
  
• Green compound leaves are alternately arranged
  
• New foliage flushed red
  
• Greenish-white flowers are born in clusters
  
• Small, round, purplish fruit contains up to six seeds
  
• Seeds are bird-dispersed
  
• Humans spread this tree through the horticulture trade

High Risk Traits:

• Elevation range exceeds 1000 m, demonstrating environmental versatility
  
• Thrives in tropical climates
  
• Naturalized on Oahu and Hawaii (Hawaiian Islands)
  
• Reported as a weed of rice crops in Thailand (but impacts unspecified)
  
• Shade tolerant
  
• Reproduces by seeds
  
• Potentially self-compatible
  
• Seeds dispersed by birds, other animals, and intentionally by people
  
• Able to coppice and resprout after cutting

Low Risk Traits:

• Unarmed (no spines, thorns, or burrs)
  
• Palatable to browsing animals
  
• Edible and medicinal uses