Family: Sapindaceae

Allophylus cobbe, commonly known as wild berry or titberry, is a shrub or small tree in the soapberry family (Sapindaceae). Native to Andaman Islands, Assam, Bangladesh, Cambodia, India, Laccadive Islands, Laos, Malaya, Maldives, Myanmar, Nicobar Islands, Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam, this species has a wide natural distribution across tropical Asia. The plant produces small white flowers followed by clusters of red to black fruits that are readily eaten by birds and other wildlife, aiding in seed dispersal. In Hawaiʻi, Allophylus cobbe is cultivated as an ornamental and has begun showing signs of spreading beyond cultivation. On Oʻahu, it is considered potentially naturalizing, meaning it has been observed escaping into nearby areas and could establish populations outside of cultivation.

Because Allophylus cobbe produces fruit that attracts seed-dispersing birds, there is concern that it could spread more widely across the islands. If it naturalizes, it may compete with native plants in forests and other natural areas, potentially altering habitat structure and resources for native species. While it is not yet a widespread invasive in Hawaiʻi, its biology suggests it has the capacity to become problematic if left unmanaged. Care should be taken when planting this species, and community observations will help track whether it continues to expand beyond cultivated landscapes.

High Risk Traits:

• Thrives in tropical/subtropical climates.
  
• Tolerates diverse soils, salinity, shade, and a wide elevation range.
  
• Can grow as a climber or smothering vine.
  
• Reproduces by viable seeds and vegetative root fragments.
  
• Self-compatible (does not require a pollinator).
  
• Seeds dispersed by birds and intentionally by humans.
  
• Seeds survive gut passage after animal consumption.
  
• Resprouts after damage or fire.
  
• Documented as a naturalized garden weed (e.g., in Hawaii).

Low Risk Traits:

• Not toxic to humans or animals; fruit is edible.
  
• Lacks spines, thorns, or burrs.
  
• Not parasitic or allelopathic.
  
• Not a known host for major pests.
  
• Not a nitrogen-fixer, grass, or aquatic plant.
  
• Seeds not dispersed by wind, water, or as a contaminant.
  
• Low seed production (single-seeded fruit).