Invasive Trees and Plants in CNMI: Identification, Impacts & Native Replacement Guide

Invasive Trees and Plants That Grow in CNMI

The Northern Mariana Islands’ limestone forests are sensitive to invasive woody plants that alter soil chemistry and canopy structure.

Key Invasive Trees (Examples)

• Tangan-tangan (Leucaena leucocephala) – Dominates disturbed limestone soils.
• Acacia (Acacia auriculiformis) – Forms dense stands that reduce native diversity.

Native Replacement Guide

• Ifil (Intsia bijuga)
• Mapunao (Calophyllum inophyllum)
• Native Pandanus (Pandanus spp.)

Pacific Islands Cluster

• Hawaiʻi
• Guam
• American Samoa