Family: Phyllanthaceae

Phyllanthus vitis-idaea, also known as Indian snowberry or mountain coffee bush, is a small evergreen shrub native to India, Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia, and parts of northern Australia. It has rounded, glossy leaves and produces small white to pinkish berries that lend the plant its “snowberry” appearance. Often grown as a tidy ornamental hedge or border plant, it responds well to pruning and can add subtle texture and color to tropical and subtropical landscapes.

Although Phyllanthus vitis-idaea is not confirmed to be naturalized in Hawai‘i, it does possess several traits—such as bird-dispersed fruit and adaptability to a range of tropical conditions—that raise some concern. Other species in the Phyllanthus group have become weedy or invasive, so caution is warranted. Further evaluation is needed to determine whether this species could pose ecological risks in Hawai‘i, and gardeners should monitor plantings for any signs of unwanted spread.

High Risk Traits:

• Thrives in tropical climates
  
• Possibly naturalizing on Oahu, Hawaiian Islands (confirmation needed)
  
• Other Breynia species are invasive
  
• Used as a fish poison, and potentially toxic to humans if ingested
  
• A shrub to small tree that can become a climber
  
• Reproduces by seeds
  
• Seeds dispersed by birds and other frugivorous animals
  
• Possibly water dispersed
  
• Limited ecological information reduces accuracy of risk prediction

Low Risk Traits:

• No reports of invasiveness or naturalization (with the possible exception of Oahu), but no evidence of widespread introduction outside native range
  
• Unarmed (no spines, thorns or burrs)
  
• Ornamental and medicinal uses
  
• Not reported to spread vegetatively
  
• Seeds recalcitrant; lose viability after 3 months