Family: Fabaceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Psoralea pinnata (African scurfpea, blue broom, blue pea, dally pine) is a fast-growing shrub or small tree native to the southwestern Cape Province of South Africa. It is valued for its delicate, fern-like foliage and attractive purple-blue pea-shaped flowers, which make it a popular ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes. This species is commonly planted as a screening hedge, windbreak, or erosion-control plant, and it is also appreciated for its ability to tolerate poor soils and coastal conditions. Its soft, airy appearance and rapid growth have contributed to its use in subtropical and Mediterranean-style landscapes around the world.

Risks & Threats
Although Psoralea pinnata is currently not known to be naturalized in the Hawaiian Islands, it does possess traits that are cause for concern and which could detrimentally impact tropical island ecosystems. This species produces abundant seeds, grows rapidly, and can establish in disturbed habitats, riparian areas, and moist environments where it may compete with native vegetation. In regions outside its native range, it has demonstrated the ability to spread beyond cultivation and form dense stands. Because island ecosystems are especially vulnerable to invasive plants, caution is advised when considering its use in Hawaii. Plant Pono recommends choosing a low risk or native alternative whenever suitable options are available.

High Risk Traits:

• Naturalized in Australia and New Zealand
  
• Regarded as an environmental weed in Australia (threatens native plants)
  
• Other Psoralea species are invasive
  
• Tolerates many soil types
  
• Capable of forming dense stands)
  
• N-fixing (may alter soil chemistry)
  
• Reproduces by seeds
  
• Reaches maturity in 2 years
  
• Seeds dispersed by water, as a soil contaminant and intentionally by people
  
• Prolific seed production
  
• Seeds persist in the soil for 8 years
  
• Resprouts after cutting and fire

Low Risk Traits:

• Native to Mediterranean climate (may limit ability to invade in tropical/subtropical environments)
  
• Unarmed (no spines, thorns or burrs)
  
• Ornamental
  
• Herbicides may provide effective control