General Impact
On the island Mauritius, Parnell et al. (1989) found that, "T. heterophylla was spreading rapidly on the island, with small numbers of mature trees present but abundant young plants and seedlings. It appears to grow faster than any native or exotic tree on the island. Most T. heterophylla bear leaves and branches almost to the base and cast a deep shade under which virtually no other species grow. T. heterophylla is deciduous and its thick litter layer may also prevent the growth of native seedlings.
PIER (2004) states that, "T. heterophylla is invasive in Hawai‘i. It is also reported invasive on Diego Garcia and naturalizing on Kwajalein (Whistler and Steele, 1999). T. heterophylla is also naturalized in some locations on Nimitz Hill, Guam (Bart Lawrence, personal communication)."
Zimmerman et al. (2000) state that, "T. heterophylla readily invades pasture via seed." In their study, Zimmerman et al. (2000) state that, "T. heterophylla appears to facilitate the colonization of many common forest species that are unable to establish in recently abandoned pasture."
Weaver (1990) states that, "T. heterophylla regenerates and forms pure stands on grasslands and degraded soils, in particular on exposed upper slopes and ridges, where competition from faster growing, larger, and more tolerant trees is lacking." In the seedling and sapling stages, T. heterophylla is an aggressive pioneer (Weaver, 1990), and it can maintain viable populations in both dry and moist forest habitats (Cordero and Molano, 1996).
Location Specific Impacts:Cayman Brac (Cayman Islands) 
Hybridisation: Hybridization of Tabebuia heterophylla with a native variety is possible (Burton, 2003 in Varnham, 2006). Grand Cayman (Cayman Islands)
Hybridisation: Hybridization of Tabebuia heterophylla with a native variety is possible (Burton, 2003 in Varnham, 2006).
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