Alternanthera bettzickiana (Calico Plant)

Native to South America this fast-growing species has spread to many tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. Its inflorescences are composed of tightly packed globular heads made up of many small, pale cream or yellowish flowers borne on wiry stems. The Calico Plant is known for its striking and colorful foliage, which varies depending on the cultivar. The leaves come in a range of hues, including shades of green, red, pink, yellow, and orange, often with intricate patterns and variegations. Due to its rapid vegetative spread and prolific seed production, it is considered invasive in several countries, including Fiji and parts of India. Photographed in Armenia, Colombia and Ecuador.