Family: Begoniaceae

Begonia cucullata (clubbed begonia, wax begonia) is a herbaceous perennial that is native to South America. It is commonly cultivated in landscaping and as a ground cover plant.  It is reported to be naturalized on Réunion Island as well as Kauaʻi, Oʻahu, Molokai and Hawaiʻi Island. It can be found growing invasively in Florida and Georgia. The plant is known to be a weed of disturbed environments (roadsides, overgrazed pastures, deforested areas), thrives in tropical climates, and creates bountiful seeds.

High Risk Traits:

• Elevation range exceeds 1000 m, demonstrating environmental versatility
  
• Thrives in tropical climates
  
• Naturalized in the Hawaiian Island (Kauai, Oahu, Molokai and Hawaii islands), Reunion, and a number of other locations
  
• Regarded as a disturbance weed with potential negative impacts to native ecosystems
  
• Other Begonia species have become invasive
  
• Roots are mildly toxic
  
• Shade-tolerant
  
• Prolific seeder
  
• Able to produce seeds in one growing season
  
• Seeds dispersed by wind, water and intentionally by people

Low Risk Traits:

• Unarmed (no spines, thorns or burrs)
  
• Non-toxic
  
• Leaves and flowers edible to humans (but roots may be toxic)
  
• Ornamental
  
• Herbicides may be able to effectively control this plant