Family: Rosaceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Photinia davidiana (photina, Chinese stranvaesia, matchweed) is a shrub or small tree native to central and southern China, northern Vietnam, Taiwan, Sumatra, and Borneo. It is valued as an ornamental plant for its dense foliage, clusters of white flowers, and bright red berries that persist into the cooler months. The species is commonly planted in gardens and landscapes as a hedge, screen, or wildlife-attracting ornamental. In Hawaiʻi, Photinia davidiana has become naturalized in upper elevation areas of Maui and Hawaiʻi Island, where it is able to establish and spread outside cultivation.

Risks & Threats
This species is considered high risk because it is naturalized in Hawaiʻi and possesses traits that are cause for concern in tropical island ecosystems. Photinia davidiana produces abundant bird-dispersed fruits, allowing it to spread into native forests and disturbed habitats. Once established, it can form dense thickets that compete with native plants for sunlight, water, and space, potentially altering forest structure and reducing biodiversity. Its ability to thrive in cooler upland environments increases concern for sensitive native ecosystems already under pressure from invasive species. Because of these risks, planting this species is discouraged in Hawaiʻi, especially near natural areas. When possible, choose a low-risk or native alternative better suited for protecting island ecosystems.

High Risk Traits:

• Can grow in upper elevation tropical climates
  
• Elevation range exceeds 1000 m, demonstrating environmental versatility
  
• Naturalized in upper elevations of Maui, and Hawaii (Hawaiian Islands), and elsewhere
  
• An environmental weed in forest reserves of Hawaii
  
• Related Photinia species may be invasive
  
• Host of fireblight pathogen
  
• Tolerates some shade
  
• Tolerates many soil types
  
• Reported to form dense thickets in higher elevations of Hawaiian Islands
  
• Self-compatible
  
• Fleshy-fruited with seeds dispersed by birds and mammals
  
• Tolerates frequent pruning

Low Risk Traits:

• May require cold stratification for seeds to germinate
  
• Possible long time to reproductive maturity
  
• Not known to spread vegetatively
  
• Herbicide imazapyr provides effective control