Family: Fabaceae
Alysicarpus vaginalis (alyce clover, buffalo clover) is an annual herb native to tropical and subtropical regions, with its natural range spanning parts of Asia and Africa. It is sometimes grown for fodder due to its palatability to livestock. The plant has been reported to be naturalized in Kauai, Oʻahu, Molokai, Maui, Hawaiʻi Island, and elsewhere in the tropics. Alyce clover is capable of fixing nitrogen in the soil, contributing to soil fertility. Despite its positive attributes, it may pose challenges such as competition with native vegetation in certain ecosystems, and its unchecked spread can lead to unwanted dominance in certain areas. Alyce clover exhibits invasive traits such as rapid growth, high seed production, and adaptability to different environments. Found along roadsides and in disturbed habitats, Alysicarpus vaginalis is regarded as a weed in Guam, Hawaii, and Fiji, and it is recognized as an invasive species across numerous Pacific Islands.
High Risk Traits:
- Broad climate suitability, and potential elevation range exceeds 1000 m
- Thrives in tropical climates
- Naturalized on Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Maui, Hawaii (Hawaiian Islands), and elsewhere in the tropics
- A common weed of, and controlled in, lawns and golf fairways; also a weed of roadside and vacant lots
- A frequently reported weed of several agricultural crops, although negative impacts are generally not quantified or specified
- Other species may also be weeds
- May be a host of crop pests and pathogens
- Shade tolerant
- Tolerates many soil types
- Reproduces by seed as an annual or perennial and vegetatively by rooting at nodes
- Reported to be self-pollinated
- Able to reach maturity in one growing season
- Seeds dispersed in the dung of grazing animals, by water, through intentional cultivation, and possibly by other vectors
- Capable of prolific seed production
- Seeds are hard-coated, and may form a persistent seed bank
- Tolerates regular grazing and mowing
Low Risk Traits:
- Unarmed (no spines, thorns, or burrs)
- Provides fodder for livestock
- Not reported to be toxic
- Herbicides may provide effective control
