Arachnothryx buddleioides

Native from Mexico through Central America, this shrub or small tree grows in humid forests and reaches about 26 feet tall. The white or cream-colored undersides of its leaves contrast with their green upper surfaces. Clusters of white or pink tubular flowers are visited by butterflies and hummingbirds. In Panama, it flowers and fruits from October to February. Its small dry capsules split open to release seeds. The leaves feed caterpillars of the butterfly Adelpha demialba in Costa Rica. Its wood is used to make tool handles. Photographed in Panama.