Family: Melastomataceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Miconia bicolor (syn. Tetrazygia bicolor), commonly known as Florida clover ash, is native to southeastern Florida and the Caribbean. This evergreen shrub or small tree is valued for its attractive ornamental appearance, featuring glossy dark green leaves with striking silvery-white undersides, clusters of pink to lavender flowers, and small dark purple berries that attract birds. Because of its attractive foliage and tolerance of a range of growing conditions, it has been planted in tropical and subtropical landscapes as a decorative garden and screening plant.

Risks & Threats
Miconia bicolor is naturalized in Hawaiʻi and possesses traits that are cause for concern in tropical island ecosystems. It produces abundant bird-dispersed fruits, allowing it to spread beyond cultivation into forests and other natural areas. Once established, it can form dense stands that compete with native vegetation, reducing biodiversity and altering natural ecosystem processes. Continued planting may contribute to its spread into new areas of the islands. Where practical, choose a low-risk or native alternative for landscaping. Because Miconia bicolor is already established in parts of Hawaiʻi, avoid planting it in areas where it is not yet widespread, and manage existing cultivated plants to prevent further spread into surrounding natural habitats.

High Risk Traits:

• Naturalized on Hawaii Island (mesic to wet forests, disturbed areas)
  
• Native to tropical/subtropical climates (Cuba, Bahamas, S. Florida)
  
• Produces viable seed
  
• Bird-dispersed berries
  
• Seeds survive gut passage
  
• Dispersed intentionally (nursery trade, cultivation)
  
• Dispersed unintentionally (roadsides, trails)
  
• Prolific seed production (many seeds per berry)
  
• Tolerates wide range of soils (acidic to alkaline, sand to clay, limestone)

Low Risk Traits:

• No spines, thorns, or burrs
  
• Non-toxic (fruits edible)
  
• Not an agricultural, forestry, or environmental weed
  
• Prefers partial shade (limits competitive dominance)