Family: Bromeliaceae

Guzmania lindenii is an epiphytic, and sometimes terrestrial bromeliad native to shady, wet forests of Peru, from elevations of 1000–1500 m (3280-4920 feet). Although rare in cultivation, it is prized by bromeliad enthusiasts, and was discovered to be naturalized in native forest in Kalihi Valley, Oahu. With an ability to spread both vegetatively and by wind-dispersed seeds, and to densely colonize host trees, this plant has the potential to impact both landscaping as well as native forest communities.

High Risk Traits:

• Native to and able to spread in regions with tropical climates
  
• Naturalized on Oahu.
  
• A potential landscaping and environmental weed.
  
• Shade tolerant.
  
• Able to form dense cover on host trees, potentially weighing them down or competing with other epiphytic vegetation.
  
• Reproduces by seeds and vegetatively.
  
• Self-fertile
  
• Dispersed by wind (seeds) and through intentional cultivation.
  
• Prolific seed production (ca. 30,000/inflorescence)

Low Risk Traits:

• Unarmed (no spines, thorns, or burrs)
  
• Non-toxic