Family: Papaveraceae

Bocconia frutescens, commonly known as plume poppy or tree poppy, is a tall, fast-growing shrub to small tree native to Mexico, Central America, and parts of South America. It has large, gray-green leaves with pale undersides and produces airy clusters of orange-brown flowers that give it a distinctive “plume” appearance. In landscaping, it has been used for its unique foliage and rapid growth, offering a bold, tropical look in gardens. The plant can reach 20–30 feet in height and is tolerant of a wide range of conditions, making it easy to cultivate in warm climates.

However, Bocconia frutescens is a highly invasive species in Hawaiʻi, where it spreads aggressively in disturbed and intact forests alike. It produces large quantities of bird-dispersed seeds that allow it to colonize remote areas, forming dense stands that outcompete native vegetation. Its ability to grow in shade or sun, coupled with rapid regeneration after disturbance, makes it a serious threat to native ecosystems. Because of its invasive behavior and documented impacts on Hawaiian forests, this species is not recommended for cultivation and should be removed where possible to prevent further spread.

High Risk Traits:

• Environmental versatility (wide soil & elevation range)
  
• Naturalized beyond native range
  
• Noxious weed status (Hawaii)
  
• Forms dense thickets
  
• Toxic to animals and humans
  
• Shade tolerant
  
• Prolific seed production
  
• Bird-dispersed seeds
  
• Long-lived soil seed bank
  
• Resprouts after damage
  
• No effective natural enemies

Low Risk Traits:

• No spines/thorns/burrs
  
• No evidence of hybridization
  
• Not a fire hazard
  
• Herbicides can provide effective control