Family: Melastomataceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Andesanthus lepidotus (syn. Tibouchina lepidota), commonly known as glory bush or alstonville, is a medium-sized flowering tree native to the Andes of South America. It is prized for its large, vibrant purple flowers and is widely planted as an ornamental tree in parks, gardens, and urban landscapes within its native region. In addition to its ornamental appeal, the species has traditional medicinal uses, and its edible flowers are occasionally used as a decorative garnish in fine dining.

Risks & Threats
Although Andesanthus lepidotus is not known to be naturalized in Hawaiʻi, it does possess traits that are cause for concern. The species is adapted to tropical climates and can grow across a broad elevational range, including areas up to about 1,000 meters, suggesting it could potentially establish in many parts of the Hawaiian Islands if widely planted. While there are currently no reports of this species becoming naturalized outside its native range, all other Tibouchina species present in Hawaiʻi are listed as Hawaiʻi State Noxious Weeds due to their invasive behavior. Given these similarities, caution is recommended to ensure that Andesanthus lepidotus will not negatively impact Hawaiʻi’s native ecosystems.

High Risk Traits:

• Elevation range exceeds 1000 m, demonstrating environmental versatility
  
• Thrives in tropical climates
  
• Other Tibouchina species have become invasive, and all are listed as Hawaii State Noxious Weeds
  
• Host of Cryphonectria canker, a pathogen also found on Eucalyptus species
  
• Pollen may be allergenic to some people
  
• Tolerates shade at early stages of growth
  
• Tiny seeds (0.5 mm long), if produced, can be dispersed by winds and possibly accidentally
  
• Tolerates repeated pruning and cutting (and therefore may be difficult to control without use of herbicides)
  
• Limited ecological information makes accurate risk prediction difficult

Low Risk Traits:

• No reports of invasiveness or naturalization, but no evidence of widespread introduction outside native range
  
• Unarmed (no spines, thorns or burrs)
  
• Ornamental