Hawaii residents are urged to use the Pest Hotline to promptly report sightings of invasive pests such as snakes, unusually aggressive stinging ants, and illegal or unknown animals. Call 643-PEST (643-7378)
Native to Central and South America, introduced to Hawaii as an ornamental garden plant
Harm:
Aggressive invader of dry forests. Forms dense stands that crowd out and compete with native plants, keeping them from growing
Each plant can produce thousands of seeds that are particularly attractive to birds, which spread them long distances.
Mechanical and chemical control of this species is difficult. Plants often resprout after control and persistence is required to completely control plume poppy.
In Hawaii:
Kauai: Not present. Please contact KISC if you see this plant on Kauai.
Oahu: Present, but not an OISC target. Landowners are encouraged to control this pest.
Maui: Serious invader in native dry and mesic forests of East Maui with dense infestations from Kula to Kahikinui. It is not believed to be controllable or eradicable on an island-wide basis. Landowners are asked to control where possible.
Molokai: None known.
Lanai: None known.
Kahoolawe: None known.
Big Island: Infestations in Wood Valley, Honomalino and Manuka on the Big Island. BIISC is controlling this plant in cooperation with landowners and community groups. Please call 643-PEST if you see this plant.
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