Family: Aquifoliaceae

Ilex vomitoria (yaupon) is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to the southeastern United States. It has glossy, dark green leaves with gently rounded edges and produces small white flowers followed by bright red berries that are especially noticeable in winter. Yaupon has a long cultural history, particularly among Indigenous peoples, who traditionally used its leaves to brew a caffeinated tea. Today, it is commonly planted as an ornamental hedge or landscape tree because of its dense growth, tolerance of pruning, and attractiveness to birds.

Although yaupon is not currently naturalized in Hawaiʻi, it does possess traits that are cause for concern. The species is hardy, adaptable to a range of soil and moisture conditions, and produces abundant berries that can be spread by birds. In other regions, these characteristics allow it to persist and spread beyond cultivation. For these reasons, caution is recommended when planting yaupon in Hawaiʻi to ensure it does not escape cultivation or negatively impact native ecosystems. Careful monitoring and responsible management are important to prevent potential future invasiveness.

High Risk Traits:

• Congeneric weed potential (Ilex aquifolium invasive)
  
• Toxic berries to humans
  
• Bird-dispersed seeds
  
• Seeds survive gut passage
  
• Resprouts after fire or damage
  
• Intentionally planted as ornamental
  
• Seeds spread via nursery stock

Low Risk Traits:

• Not naturalized beyond native range
  
• No spines, thorns, or burrs
  
• Not allelopathic or parasitic
  
• Non-toxic to animals
  
• Not a major pest/disease host
  
• Dioecious (requires male/female plants)
  
• No vegetative reproduction
  
• No wind or water seed dispersal
  
• Browsed by wildlife (not avoided)