From Ornamental to Overwhelming: The Case of Spathodea campanulata in the Pacific

ABSTRACT Invasive alien species (IAS) are considered key drivers of population decline and extinction on islands. In Fiji and elsewhere in the Pacific, the long history of fascination with horticultural novelty has largely contributed to biological invasions. African tulip ( Spathodea campanulata P. Beauv.) was introduced as an ornamental tree in the early part of the 20th century. Ever since, it has escaped cultivation and widely naturalised, invading abandoned agricultural fields, degraded areas, and human‐disturbed forests. We review the mechanisms driving S. campanulata invasions in the region, impacts, management strategies, and the way forward for the Pacific. Despite scientific evidence, polarised perceptions have undermined management actions. This incongruity calls for efforts directed towards integrated management, co‐designing strategies, raising public awareness, rapid response teams for high conservation value forests, leveraging regional initiatives, and legislation.