Family: Combretaceae

Terminalia molinetii (spiny black olive) is a small to medium-sized tree native to the Philippines. It has glossy, dark green leaves and produces small, round fruits that turn dark purple to black when mature. The tree is valued for its dense wood, which can be used for furniture and construction, and it is sometimes planted for shade or as an ornamental due to its attractive foliage and fruits. Its natural form is often multi-branched, and the tree can develop spiny branches, giving it a distinctive appearance.

While Terminalia molinetii is not widely reported as invasive, it does have traits that could allow it to spread in suitable climates, such as rapid growth and prolific fruiting. The spiny branches can make management more difficult, and in areas where it escapes cultivation, it could potentially compete with native plants. Careful monitoring is recommended if planting this tree outside its native range in Hawaii to ensure it does not become a risk to local ecosystems.

High Risk Traits:

• Spines present (3–7 mm) — can cause injury and hinder management
  
• Produces viable seeds
  
• No evidence of shade tolerance — prefers full sun

Low Risk Traits:

• Not naturalized outside native range (Cuba, Bahamas, S. Florida)
  
• Not considered weedy
  
• Low seed output; no prolific seed production
  
• No persistent seed bank — seeds short-lived
  
• No evidence of vegetative reproduction
  
• Poor natural dispersal — not adapted for wind, bird, or wide water dispersal