About Montanoa hibiscifolia (Benth.) K.Koch
Montanoa hibiscifolia (Benth.) K.Koch is an erect, tree-like perennial shrub that reaches 2 to 7 meters (7 to 23 feet) in height. Its leaves are simple and arranged oppositely on stems. Young leaves are pinnatifid, while mature leaves are palmately lobed. Leaves can grow up to 25 centimeters (10 inches) in both length and width, are dark green on the upper surface and paler beneath, covered in fine smooth hairs on both sides, and have a pair of lobes at the base of the leaf blade. This species is native to southern Mexico and Central America, specifically Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. It has been introduced to other areas including South Africa and Australia. It was originally cultivated as a garden plant, but has escaped cultivation to become a weed in road verges, riparian zones, savannas, river banks, gullies, and forest edges. It is an invasive species that can form dense stands, so it is listed as a noxious weed in regions including South Africa and Hawaii, and is classified as a sleeper weed in southeastern Queensland. It has also become naturalized in Norfolk Island, La Reunion, coastal districts of northern New South Wales, and French Polynesia. The species primarily reproduces and spreads via seeds, which are dispersed by moving vehicles and flowing water.
