Have you seen Aramina (Urena lobata)?
Hawaii Early Detection Network Priority Pest for the islands of Maui, Lanai, Molokai, and the Big Island Hawaii


Aramina flower detail
Aramina flower
Aramina detail
Typical growth form
Aramina
Bur seed will cling to skin and clothing.

Identification: Aramina (aka Ceasar's weed) is a weedy shrub that can be found growing in disturbed, low elevation sites. It grows 10 feet in height. The branches often have a purple tint. Alternate leaves, with raspy feel. Produces clusters of small (1 cm or 0.4 in) pinkish-violet flowers. The seeds are covered with hooked bristles that will cling to skin and clothing.
Impacts: Aramina grows rapidly and can reach 2 to 7 feet by the end of the first year. This plant is not browsed by cows and will degrade pature quality. It's bur seeds can become a nuisance when caught in animal's fur and clothing.
Dispersal Mechanism: Aramina is a pantropical weed, probably of Asiatic origin. When bur seeds get caught in animal's fur they can be dispersed throughout patures, disturbed areas, and agricultrual fields where the plant will readily grow. Aramina is currently only known to grow in a few locations in Hawaii (see map). If you see it anywhere else- let someone know!

More information about this pest external link


Aramina look-alikes:


'Ilima (Sida fallax):
'Ilima is a native Hawaiian shrub that is found in coastal and rocky areas. The flowers of 'ilima are variable, ranging from yellow to dull red. It can be differenctiated from aramina by the shape of its leaf, which is small (1-8 cm) and heart-shaped, as well as ilima's lack of prickly burs.

Ilima

'Ilima

Sacramento Bur (Triumfetta semitriloba):
The Sacramento bur is a shrub that grows up to 5 ft (1.5 m) tall and is found in arid areas. Its leaves are oblong in shape and have three lobes. Its small yellow flowers grow in clusters.

Sacremento Bur

Sacremento Bur

Last Updated: . If you have any questions about the Hawaii Early Detection Network contact reportapest-maui@lists.hawaii.edu.