As summer winds down, a new spectacle is beginning to emerge across the hillsides of São Miguel: the ginger lily. What starts as a large, unassuming green plant suddenly sends a spike straight up, which then transforms into a stunning and fragrant cluster of vibrant yellow flowers. It’s a beautiful sight, but it tells a complex story.

The scientific name for this plant is Hedychium gardnerianum, also known as the Kahila garland lily. Native to the Himalayas, it is considered one of the worst invasive species on the planet. Its powerful growth and ability to take over entire hillsides are on full display in the Azores, where it forms dense thickets that outcompete native plants.

This phenomenon is a key part of the Azores’ natural history. It’s estimated that a staggering 80% of the plants on the islands are not native. Many of the species the Azores are famous for, from the iconic hydrangeas to the Cryptomeria forests, were introduced here and have since flourished, often at the expense of the islands’ original flora.

The reason for this is likely due to the islands’ remote location. On a remote island ecosystem, native plants often evolve without the intense competition, pests, and diseases that exist on a large continent. When more aggressive, fast-growing plants are introduced, the native species, which are not equipped to compete, are easily overtaken.

The ginger lily is a powerful example of this. Its beautiful, fragrant flowers are a sign of its success, but they also serve as a reminder of the delicate balance of this unique island ecosystem. While its bloom is a stunning sight, it’s a testament to the ongoing ecological challenges faced by the Azores.

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Anthony “Tiger” Liu is an American expat and the operator of Golden Mermaid Villa and Longevity Habit retreat, where he shares a passion for the vibrant culture and nourishing lifestyle of São Miguel.