Identification: Miconia's only currently known to grow in one area of Maui County (East Maui, see map). Miconia is a fast growing weedy tree that reaches 4-15 m (13-50 ft) in height. It has opposite leaves that grow up to 80 cm (31.5 in) long, and are dark green above with THREE PROMINANT pale green VEINS that run from base to the tip. The underside of the leaves are purple. It produces dark purple fruits that are 7 mm (1/3 in) in diameter.
Dispersal Mechanism: Humans and animals are key dispersal mechanisms for miconia. Plant lovers have used miconia as an ornamental plant in landscape projects. Seeds, about the size of a sand grain, are unintentionally spread by humans and hitchhike on clothes, boots, gear and animals. Birds are another dispersal mechanism.

Characteristics:
More information about this pest 

Miconia look-alikes:

Koster's curse (Clidemia hirta):
Koster's curse is widespread in Maui County. This shrub 0.5-3 m (4.9-9.8 ft) tall with leaves 5-16 cm (2-6.3 in) long and 3-8 cm (1.2-3.1 in) wide. Leaves are covered in STIFF HAIRS and are SMALLER THAN MICONIA.

Rubber tree (Ficus elastica):
Rubber tree is a shiny, leathery plant with broadly oval leaves 7-20 cm (3.8 in) long. The leaves have smooth edges and blunt pointed tips that are paler below than above and has CIRCULAR SCARS on twigs. This plant contains copious white latex.