Native to Mexico, Central America, and parts of South America, Anoda cristata is a fast-growing annual or short-lived perennial in the mallow family (Malvaceae), often found in disturbed soils, agricultural fields, and roadsides. It thrives in warm climates and is known for its distinctive, funnel-shaped flowers, which range from lavender to deep purple and feature a prominent white center filled with stamens. It has heart-shaped to triangular leaves and slightly hairy stems while its flowers are borne singly or in small clusters on slender stalks. It reproduces readily from seed and can become locally abundant in favorable conditions. Traditionally, in some regions, the plant has been used as a leafy vegetable or in herbal remedies. Photographed in the department of Quindio, Colombia and Peru.