Family: Verbenaceae

Verbena litoralis (common verbena, seashore vervain, ōwī) is a perennial herb native to the Americas from Mexico to Chile. This plant has been used medicinally by Hawaiians. It is reported to be naturalized on Oʻahu, Maui, Kauaʻi, Hawaiʻi Island and Kahoʻolawe. This plant contains a latex that is highly damaging and corrosive to the skin. It may form a persistent seed bank and regrow after cutting, making it a nuisance that is difficult to get rid of once established.

High Risk Traits:

• Elevation range exceeds 1000 m, demonstrating environmental versatility
  
• Thrives in tropical climates
  
• Occurs on Oʻahu, Maui, Kauaʻi, Hawaiʻi Island and Kahoʻolawe
  
• Latex highly caustic to the skin, possibly poisonous if ingested
  
• Tolerates many soil types
  
• Seeds dispersed by birds and intentionally by people
  
• Seeds able to be stored for extended periods; May form a persistent seed bank
  
• Able to coppice and resprout after cutting

Low Risk Traits:

• Unarmed (no spines, thorns or burrs)
  
• Medicinal uses
  
• Not reported to spread vegetatively
  
• Herbicides provide effective control