Family: Plantaginaceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Lophospermum scandens, commonly known as twining snapdragon, is a fast-growing flowering vine native to Central Mexico. This attractive climber is valued for its soft green foliage, slender twining stems, and abundant tubular flowers that range from pink to rose-purple with lighter throats. It is commonly grown on trellises, fences, hanging baskets, and walls where it adds colorful vertical interest to gardens. Twining snapdragon thrives in warm climates with full sun to partial shade and is often used as an ornamental plant in tropical and subtropical landscapes because of its long blooming season and graceful appearance.

Risks & Threats
Twining snapdragon is considered a low risk species for Hawaii. While it can spread by seed and may occasionally self-sow in favorable conditions, it is not known to aggressively invade natural areas or displace native vegetation. The plant is generally well behaved in cultivated settings and poses minimal ecological concern when properly maintained. Gardeners should still monitor for unwanted spread beyond planting areas and dispose of garden waste responsibly, but overall this species is regarded as a safe ornamental choice for tropical landscapes.

High Risk Traits:

• Suited to tropical/subtropical climates
  
• Native to Mexico (tropical region)
  
• History of repeated introductions outside native range
  
• Climbing/smothering growth habit (vine)
  
• Produces viable seed; flowers in first season
  
• Hybridizes naturally with other species
  
• Sold as ornamental; seeds intentionally dispersed
  
• Short generation time (flowers within one year)

Low Risk Traits:

• No evidence of naturalization or weediness
  
• No spines, thorns, burrs, or toxicity
  
• Not allelopathic or parasitic
  
• No dense thicket formation
  
• No vegetative fragmentation
  
• No water, bird, or animal dispersal mechanisms
  
• Requires specialist pollinator (hummingbirds)