Family: Orchidaceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Spathoglottis unguiculata (grapette ground orchid) is a terrestrial orchid native to the southwestern Pacific region. This attractive orchid forms clumps of strap-like leaves and produces upright flower spikes bearing clusters of showy purple to pink blossoms. Like other ground orchids, it is valued as an ornamental plant in tropical and subtropical gardens, where it is used in borders, mass plantings, and landscape beds. Its colorful flowers, ease of cultivation, and ability to thrive in warm climates make it a popular choice for gardeners seeking long-lasting floral displays.

Risks & Threats
Spathoglottis unguiculata is considered a low-risk species for Hawaiʻi. It has not demonstrated significant invasive tendencies and is not known to spread aggressively or disrupt native ecosystems. While any non-native plant has the potential to establish outside cultivation under favorable conditions, there is little evidence that this orchid poses substantial ecological or economic threats. Gardeners should continue to practice responsible planting and disposal of garden waste, but this species is generally regarded as a suitable ornamental choice for tropical landscapes.

High Risk Traits:

• Geophyte with underground storage organs (pseudobulbs)
  
• Shade-tolerant
  
• Tolerates wide range of soil conditions
  
• Congeneric (S. plicata) is a known invasive weed
  
• Intentionally dispersed by people as an ornamental
  
• Seeds likely wind-dispersed
  
• Potential for unintentional dispersal (mud, nursery pots, contaminated soil)

Low Risk Traits:

• Not naturalized beyond native range
  
• Not recorded as a weed (garden, agricultural, or environmental)
  
• Lacks spines, thorns, or burrs
  
• Not allelopathic, parasitic, or toxic
  
• Narrow native habitat range (meadows, paths up to 200 m altitude)