Family: Lamiaceae

Origin, Description & Uses:
Vitex parviflora, commonly known as molave or small-flowered chaste tree, is a medium-sized hardwood tree native to Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. It can grow to about 30 m (100 ft) tall and is valued for its exceptionally durable, decay-resistant wood, which has long been used for heavy construction, furniture, flooring, boat building, and other outdoor applications. Because of its attractive form and valuable timber, it has also been planted as an ornamental and forestry species in tropical regions. In Hawaiʻi, it was widely planted in Oʻahu forests during the early 20th century.

Risks & Threats:
Although valued as a timber tree, Vitex parviflora is naturalized on Oʻahu and possesses traits that are cause for concern. It reproduces by both bird-dispersed seeds and vegetative growth from root and stem cuttings, allowing it to spread beyond cultivation. On Guam, it has become invasive and forms dense stands that outcompete native vegetation and hinder native forest regeneration. These characteristics indicate that it could detrimentally impact tropical island ecosystems if allowed to spread further in Hawaiʻi. Because this species is already naturalized, it should be carefully managed and its use avoided in areas where it is not yet widely established to help limit further spread. Whenever possible, choose a low-risk or native alternative for landscaping, reforestation, and forestry plantings.

High Risk Traits:

• Thrives in tropical climates
  
• Naturalized on Oahu, Hawaiian Islands
  
• Environmental weed in Guam
  
• Other Vitex species have become invasive
  
• Host plant for important pest and diseases
  
• Tolerates many soil types
  
• Forms dense stands in Guam
  
• Produces viable seeds
  
• Seeds dispersed by birds and intentionally by people
  
• Able to reproduce vegetatively from stem segments
  
• Able to coppice and resprout after cutting

Low Risk Traits:

• Unarmed (no spines, thorns or burrs)
  
• Provides fodder for livestock
  
• Ornamental and forestry uses (timber)
  
• Self-incompatible
  
• Reaches maturity in 5+ years
  
• Herbicides may provide effective control