Family: Hernandiaceae

Origin, Description & Uses:
Hernandia sonora, commonly known as toporite, is native to tropical coastal regions of the Caribbean and the Americas, including Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Haiti, Puerto Rico, Trinidad and Tobago, the Windward and Leeward Islands, and parts of Mexico. It is typically found along sandy shores and coastal forests, where it tolerates salt spray and windy conditions. This small to medium-sized tree has broad, heart-shaped leaves and produces distinctive lantern-like fruits that surround a single seed. Toporite is occasionally used as an ornamental tree in coastal landscaping due to its attractive foliage, unique fruits, and ability to provide shade in seaside environments.

Risks & Threats:
Toporite is considered a low-risk species, with no strong evidence of invasiveness or significant ecological impacts in Hawaii or other tropical regions where it has been introduced. It does not tend to spread aggressively or dominate native plant communities. As with any non-native species, it is still advisable to plant it responsibly, particularly near sensitive coastal habitats. Overall, Hernandia sonora is regarded as a suitable choice for landscaping when managed appropriately.

High Risk Traits:

• Naturalized outside native range (Andaman Islands, Philippines, Japan, Ryukyu Islands)
  
• History of repeated introductions outside natural range
  
• Tolerates wide range of soil conditions (pH 4.5–7.5, marl to clay)
  
• Propagules dispersed by water (seeds float)
  
• Produces viable seed

Low Risk Traits:

• Not reported as a garden, agricultural, or environmental weed
  
• No congeneric weeds reported
  
• No spines, thorns, or burrs
  
• No evidence of allelopathy, parasitism, or toxicity
  
• No vegetative reproduction
  
• Minimum generative time ≥4 years (likely longer)
  
• Propagules not adapted for wind dispersal; unlikely to disperse unintentionally or as a contaminant
  
• Low seed production (10–100 viable seeds/year)
  
• No persistent seed bank (>1 year)
  
• Older trees do not resprout after cutting; no epicormic suckers