Family: Arecaceae

Arenga tremula (Philippines dwarf sugar palm) is a small, clustering palm native to the Philippines and parts of Indonesia. It typically grows in lowland and montane forests, often along streambanks or in partially shaded areas. This attractive species features graceful, arching fronds and a fibrous trunk, making it a popular choice for tropical landscapes and gardens.

Although widely grown as an ornamental palm, there is currently no evidence that Arenga tremula has naturalized in Hawaiʻi. However, related species in the Arenga genus have shown invasive tendencies elsewhere, so it should be monitored carefully to ensure it does not spread beyond cultivation.

High Risk Traits:

• Native to the Philippines and thrives in tropical climates
  
• Fruit juice produces irritation , and blisters upon contact with skin
  
• Shade-tolerant (may be able to invade forest understory)
  
• Tolerates many soil conditions (and potentially able to exploit man different habitat types)
  
• Fleshy-fruited and presumably bird and/or mammal dispersed

Low Risk Traits:

• No records of naturalization or negative impacts have been documented
  
• Unarmed
  
• Landscaping and ornamental value