Family: Escalloniaceae

Origin, Description & Uses:
Escallonia rubra var. macrantha, commonly known as redclaws, is a flowering shrub native to parts of South America, particularly Chile and Argentina. It is valued for its glossy evergreen leaves and showy clusters of tubular, deep pink to red flowers that attract pollinators such as bees and birds. This hardy shrub is often used in landscaping as a hedge, screen, or ornamental planting due to its dense growth, tolerance of coastal conditions, and ability to withstand wind and salt spray. Its attractive foliage and long blooming period make it a popular choice in gardens and urban plantings.

Risks & Threats:
In Hawaiʻi, redclaws is naturalized and demonstrates traits that raise concern, including its ability to spread beyond cultivation and establish in suitable habitats. Its dense growth can potentially outcompete native vegetation by shading and crowding out other plants. While it is not currently among the most aggressive invasive species, its adaptability and reproductive capacity suggest that it could expand its range under favorable conditions. Caution is recommended when planting this species, and further evaluation is needed to ensure it does not negatively impact Hawaiʻi’s ecosystems.

High Risk Traits:

• Naturalized in New Zealand, Ireland, the UK, and the western US
  
• Broad climate suitability (Zones 8–10; wide elevation range)
  
• Tolerates a wide range of soil conditions
  
• Produces viable seed
  
• Widely planted as an ornamental (intentional dispersal)
  
• Seeds dispersed by wind, water, and externally on animals
  
• Tolerates heavy pruning

Low Risk Traits:

• Palatable to grazing animals (no unpalatability)
  
• Non-toxic to animals and humans
  
• Fire-resistant
  
• Not shade-tolerant
  
• Requires specialist pollinators (hummingbirds)
  
• Not bird-dispersed (dry capsules)
  
• Not a serious agricultural or environmental weed