Family: Fabaceae

Mimosa casta (gracecful mimosa, zarza) is a woody perennial vine native to South America. Mimosa casta is used in traditional medicine in the Lesser Antilles to address reproductive issues, and locally, these plants serve as sources of honey. It is reported to be naturalized in the Carribean but is not documented to be naturalized on any Hawaiian Islands to date. Mimosa casta, particularly the variety diplotricha, is known for its rapid growth and aggressive spreading. It can form dense thickets and has a smothering habit, creating potential to outcompete native vegetation and impacting local ecosystems. Additionally, it has thorns, which can contribute to its ability to establish and spread. It is also adapted to tropical climates, giving it an advantage in Hawaiʻi.

High Risk Traits:

• Thrives in tropical climates
  
• Naturalized in Puerto Rico
  
• An agricultural and environmental weed with similar traits to other invasive Mimosa species
  
• Other Mimosa species are invasive weeds
  
• Densely armed with recurved, broad-based thorns
  
• Climbing and smothering habit
  
• Forms dense ground monocultures
  
• N-fixing (may modify soil nutrients)
  
• Reproduces by seeds
  
• Reaches maturity 3-6 months after seeds germinate
  
• Seeds dispersed by humans and animals in mud or by adhering to fur, clothing, and vehicles
  
• May form a persistent seed bank

Low Risk Traits:

• Palatable to goats and sheep (despite thorns)
  
• Non-toxic
  
• Not reported to spread vegetatively
  
• Herbicides may provide effective control