Family: Capparaceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Crateva religiosa, commonly known as spider tree, is a small to medium-sized tropical tree native to parts of South and Southeast Asia, northern Australia, and the Pacific. It is best known for its showy, fragrant flowers, which have long, slender stamens that give the blooms a “spidery” appearance. The tree has glossy green leaves and produces rounded fruits that are sometimes used in traditional medicine. Spider tree is widely planted as an ornamental and shade tree, valued for its attractive flowers, cultural significance, and tolerance of warm, tropical conditions.

Risks, Threats & Management
Spider tree is considered low risk and is not known to be invasive or to pose significant threats to Hawaiʻi’s native ecosystems. It does not show aggressive spreading behavior and typically remains confined to planted areas. As with any non-native species, thoughtful planting and basic garden management—such as preventing unwanted seedlings from spreading beyond cultivated spaces—are good practices. Overall, Crateva religiosa is a relatively safe choice for landscapes, especially when compared to higher-risk ornamental trees, though native plants are always encouraged when possible to best support local biodiversity.

High Risk Traits:

• Thrives in tropical/subtropical climates
  
• Native to tropical regions
  
• Palatable to animals (may aid spread)
  
• Tolerates wide soil range
  
• Produces viable seeds
  
• Reproduces vegetatively (suckering)
  
• Intentionally planted by people (ornamental/sacred)
  
• Bird-dispersed berries
  
• Seeds survive gut passage
  
• Slow to mature (4+ years) but still reproductive

Low Risk Traits:

• Not naturalized or weedy
  
• No spines, thorns, or burrs
  
• Not allelopathic, parasitic, or toxic
  
• Not a fire hazard
  
• Not shade tolerant
  
• Propagules not spread by wind, unintentional transport, or external animal attachment
  
• Not a prolific seed producer