Boehmeria caudata

Native from Mexico through Central America to Argentina and Brazil, this shrub or small tree belongs to the nettle family. It grows in moist forests, beside streams, and along roads. In Colombia, it is recorded between about 2,050 and 10,350 feet. Its opposite, toothed leaves have three main veins. Tiny greenish flowers form clusters along long, hanging spikes. Male and female flowers usually grow on separate plants. The male flowers release pollen explosively, sending it into the air for wind pollination. Its stems provide fibers used for textiles. Photographed in the central Andes of Colombia.