Abelmoschus moschatus (Musk Mallow)

Native to tropical and subtropical Asia, this aromatic annual herb can develop a shrubby form in warm climates. Its yellow flowers have a purple center and grow singly beside the leaves. The fragrant seeds yield ambrette oil for perfumes and flavorings, historically used as a substitute for animal musk. In China, mucilage from the roots is used in papermaking. Photographed in Colombia.