Family: Lamiaceae

Plectranthus scutellarioides (coleus, painted nettle) is an herbaceous shrub native to southeast Asia through to Australia. It is commonly grown as an ornamental due to its colorful, showy leaves. This plant is known to have antiviral, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been used by the Mazatec people of Southern Mexico for its mind altering and hallucinogenic effects, and is considered a narcotic in some places. It is reported to be naturalized widely in tropical areas, including the islands of Hawaiʻi, Maui, Oʻahu and Kauaʻi.  This plant is capable of causing contact dermatitis in some individuals, so caution should be exercised when handling. It reproduces easily from both cuttings and seeds, reaches maturity in one growing season, and may form dense cover that outcompetes other vegetation. It is also known to be invasive in Cuba, and is naturalized in Puerto Rico, Guam and Tonga.

High Risk Traits:

• Broad climate suitability
  
• Able to grow and spread in regions with tropical climates
  
• Naturalized on Kauai, Oahu, Maui and Hawaii (Hawaiian Islands) and elsewhere
  
• Other Plectranthus species are weeds
  
• Possibly causes contact dermatitis to susceptible individuals
  
• Shade tolerant
  
• Tolerates many soil types
  
• May form dense cover that could outcompete other vegetation
  
• Reproduces by seeds and vegetatively by cuttings and rooting fragments
  
• Able to reach maturity in one growing season
  
• Can be spread accidentally by dumped green waste
  
• Can be spread by seeds which apparently lack specific dispersal mechanisms
  
• May be difficult to control mechanically (anecdotal observations)

Low Risk Traits:

• Generally regarded as a minor pest rather than a seriously damaging weed
  
• Unarmed (no spines, thorns, or burrs)
  
• Certain herbicides may provide effective control (anecdotal observation)