Family: Fabaceae

Origin, Description & Uses:
Haematoxylum campechianum, commonly known as bloodwood tree or logwood, is native to Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, and parts of Mexico, particularly along the Gulf and southeastern regions. It is a small to medium-sized, often spiny tree with dense, dark heartwood and small yellow flowers. The wood has long been prized as a source of natural dye, producing rich reds, purples, and blacks used in textiles and inks. It is also occasionally grown as an ornamental and valued for its durable, decay-resistant hardwood.

Risks & Threats:
This species is naturalized in Hawaii and possesses traits that are cause for concern. It can spread beyond cultivation and form dense, thorny thickets that outcompete native plants and alter habitat structure. Its tolerance of coastal and dry conditions increases the likelihood of invasion into sensitive ecosystems. Because it could detrimentally impact tropical island ecosystems, caution is advised. If intentionally cultivated, consider choosing a low-risk or native alternative to help protect Hawaii’s unique environments.

High Risk Traits:

• Naturalized on O‘ahu (low elevation, dry sites)
  
• Native or naturalized in tropical/subtropical climates
  
• Naturalized beyond native range
  
• Environmental weed (invasive in Jamaica; replaces native thickets on Grand Cayman)
  
• Produces spines or thorns
  
• Tolerates a wide range of soil conditions
  
• Forms dense, impenetrable thickets
  
• Nitrogen-fixing (Fabaceae family)
  
• Produces viable seed
  
• Reproduces vegetatively
  
• Propagules dispersed unintentionally (soil, quarry material)
  
• Propagules dispersed intentionally by people (dye, timber)
  
• Persistent seed bank (hard-seeded)

Low Risk Traits:

• Not an agricultural or environmental weed
  
• No congeneric weeds
  
• No allelopathic or parasitic traits
  
• Palatable to grazing animals (used as goat browse)
  
• Not toxic to animals
  
• No significant human toxicity or allergies
  
• Not shade tolerant (requires open areas)
  
• Slow growing (harvestable at ~8 years)
  
• Not dispersed by wind, water, birds, or external animal attachment
  
• Low seed production (1-3 seeds per pod)