Aetanthus nodosus

Native from Colombia through Ecuador to central Peru, this woody mistletoe shrub grows on trees in Andean forests. In Colombia, it occurs between about 4,800 and 12,800 feet. It draws water and minerals from its host while making its own food through photosynthesis. The hanging, forked branches bear clusters of fleshy tubular flowers about 2.5 to 3 inches long, usually red with yellow tips. Sword-billed hummingbirds have been observed visiting the flowers. The juicy berries ripen to purple-black and contain a single seed. Photographed in Ecuador.