Family: Cactaceae

Origin, Description & Uses:
Leuenbergeria lychnidiflora (arbol del matrimonio) is a leafy, tree-form cactus native to Mexico (particularly Guerrero and Oaxaca) extending through parts of Central America. Unlike many typical cacti, it has prominent green leaves along with woody stems and produces attractive, often bright pink to red flowers. In its native range, it is sometimes grown as an ornamental plant for gardens and landscapes, valued for its unusual appearance that blends succulent and leafy tree characteristics. It can also be used in living fences or as a specialty plant in drought-tolerant plantings.

Risks & Threats:
This species is considered low risk and is not known to be invasive or naturalized in Hawaiʻi. It has limited evidence of aggressive spread and does not currently show traits associated with major ecological disruption in island ecosystems. However, as with any introduced ornamental plant, it should still be observed when planted in warm climates where it could potentially reproduce under favorable conditions. Continued awareness is recommended, but at this time it does not present a significant threat to Hawaiʻi’s native ecosystems.

High Risk Traits:

• Congeneric weed
  
• Produces spines/thorns
  
• Unpalatable to grazing animals
  
• Tolerates wide range of soil conditions
  
• Produces viable seed
  
• Propagules dispersed intentionally by people (ornamental)

Low Risk Traits:

• No evidence of naturalization or weediness
  
• Not allelopathic, parasitic, or toxic
  
• Does not form dense thickets
  
• Self-sterile (requires cross-pollination)
  
• No vegetative spread
  
• Low seed production
  
• No wind, water, or external animal dispersal
  
• Not shade tolerant