Characteristics of Invading Plant Species

We have little synthetic understanding of the characteristics of successful plant invaders, i.e., those that become naturalized. I will make, however, three observations about the characteristics of these species: 1) If considered collectively, their morphologic, genetic, and ecological characteristics in many regions (including Hawai`i) are as diverse as the characteristics of the native vascular plants. 2) Despite this extreme diversity, many local floras worldwide share the same naturalized species. Consequently, successful invaders may indeed share traits, although not necessarily the traits often suggested. 3) The opportunity exists through comparative studies of congeners to determine the characteristics that allow successful invasions.