Family: Arecaceae

High Risk Traits:

• Naturalized beyond native range (neotropics)
  
• Repeated introductions outside native range (Hawaii, Pacific islands)
  
• Dispersed intentionally by people (ornamental palm)
  
• Bird-dispersed seeds (macaws, parrots)
  
• Produces viable, readily germinating seed
  
• Native to tropical/subtropical climates

Low Risk Traits:

• No weed history (garden, agricultural, or environmental)
  
• No spines, thorns, or burrs
  
• Not allelopathic, parasitic, or toxic
  
• No fire hazard
  
• Requires full sun (not shade tolerant)
  
• Narrow soil preference (rich, neutral-to-alkaline)
  
• No vegetative reproduction
  
• Takes 10–15 years to mature
  
• No wind, water, or external animal dispersal
  
• Not a prolific seed producer