Family: Scrophulariaceae

Buddleja saligna (false olive, squarestem butterfly bush) is a small to medium-sized evergreen tree native to southern Africa. It is valued for its narrow gray-green leaves, distinctive square stems, and clusters of small, creamy white flowers that attract butterflies and other pollinators. With its airy form and drought tolerance, it is commonly used in landscaping as a screen, windbreak, or ornamental tree. It performs well in dry, low-maintenance gardens and is appreciated for its resilience and elegant, understated appearance.

In the Hawaiian Islands, Buddleja saligna is currently considered low risk and safe to grow. It has not shown significant invasive behavior in Hawaiʻi and is unlikely to spread aggressively or threaten native ecosystems under typical conditions. As with all non-native plants, it is still recommended to practice responsible gardening by monitoring for any unexpected spread and avoiding planting near sensitive natural areas, helping to protect Hawaiʻi’s unique environment.

High Risk Traits:

• Broad climate suitability (USDA zones 7–11)
  
• Naturalized outside native range (e.g., California, Australia)
  
• Fast-growing (up to 1 m/year)
  
• Wind-dispersed seeds
  
• Intentionally planted and sold ornamentally
  
• Tolerates a wide range of soils
  
• Produces viable seeds with high germination

Low Risk Traits:

• No reported negative ecological impacts
  
• Not shade-tolerant
  
• No persistent seed bank
  
• Controllable with herbicides