Family: Rhamnaceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Maesopsis eminii, commonly known as umbrella tree, is a fast-growing tropical tree native to a broad region of Africa ranging from Liberia to South Sudan and Zambia. It is a large evergreen species with a tall straight trunk, broad spreading crown, and glossy green leaves that provide dense shade. The tree produces small flowers followed by fleshy fruits that are attractive to birds and other wildlife. Because of its rapid growth and timber value, umbrella tree has been planted in tropical regions for reforestation, agroforestry, shade, erosion control, and as an ornamental landscape tree. Its wood is used for construction, furniture, plywood, and fuelwood production.

Risks & Threats
Although Maesopsis eminii is not currently known to be naturalized in the Hawaiian Islands, it possesses several traits that are cause for concern and could negatively impact tropical island ecosystems if introduced or allowed to spread. This species grows rapidly, produces abundant fruit, and is readily dispersed by birds and other animals, allowing it to spread into forests and disturbed habitats. In other tropical regions outside its native range, umbrella tree has demonstrated invasive tendencies by forming dense stands that outcompete native vegetation, alter forest structure, and reduce biodiversity. Its ability to thrive in a variety of environmental conditions increases the risk of invasion in Hawaii’s humid and mesic environments. Because of these concerns, Plant Pono recommends choosing a low risk or native alternative whenever suitable alternatives are available.

High Risk Traits:

• Naturalized and invasive beyond native range (Tanzania, India, Puerto Rico, Hawaii)
  
• Environmental weed; displaces native vegetation and alters forest ecosystems
  
• Forms dense thickets, preventing native regeneration
  
• Shade tolerant at some life stages (seedlings survive under canopy)
  
• Tolerates wide range of soil conditions (acidic to neutral, granite to alluvial)
  
• Reproduces by seed; viable seed production
  
• Bird-dispersed (especially hornbills, also monkeys, bats, rodents)
  
• Seeds survive gut passage (increases germination)
  
• Intentional human introduction for timber, shade, fuel
  
• Reaches reproductive maturity in 4–6 years
  
• Coppices and suckers; tolerates mutilation

Low Risk Traits:

• No spines, thorns, or burrs
  
• No evidence of allelopathy
  
• Not toxic to animals or humans
  
• No vegetative fragmentation by roots
  
• No persistent soil seed bank (>1 year)
  
• Seeds recalcitrant (viable only a few months)
  
• Limited wind or water dispersal adaptations