Family: Combretaceae

Combretum constrictum, commonly known simply as combretum, is a woody shrub or scrambling vine native to parts of Africa. It is valued as an ornamental for its attractive growth form, glossy leaves, and showy flowers that can range in color from pale to more vibrant tones, depending on conditions. In cultivation, it is often used as a hedge, screen, or trained climber, and in some regions related Combretum species have also been used in traditional medicine and landscaping due to their hardiness and tolerance of warm, dry conditions.

While Combretum constrictum is not currently known to be naturalized in Hawaiʻi, some species within the genus are vigorous growers that can spread quickly in tropical and subtropical environments. Its ability to scramble or climb may allow it to overtop nearby vegetation if not carefully managed, potentially shading out smaller plants. Because of these traits, caution is recommended when planting this species, especially near natural areas. Choosing native or low-risk alternatives can help protect Hawaiʻi’s unique ecosystems and reduce the chance of future invasive impacts.

High Risk Traits:

• Broad climate suitability (tropical/subtropical)
  
• Grows in varied habitats (swamps, forests, mangroves)
  
• Repeatedly introduced outside native range
  
• Climbing/smothering growth habit
  
• Tolerates wide range of soils
  
• Produces viable seed
  
• Intentionally dispersed by people
  
• Wind- and water-dispersed propagules
  
• Congeneric species are weeds
  
• Potential fire ladder in ecosystems

Low Risk Traits:

• Not naturalized outside native range
  
• Not reported as a weed
  
• No spines/thorns/burrs
  
• Non-toxic
  
• Not shade-tolerant
  
• Not bird- or animal-dispersed
  
• No evidence of vegetative spread in wild