Originating from the tropical and subtropical regions of America, the Indian Shot has since flourished in a broad spectrum of climates Its roots run deep in history, having been a minor food crop nurtured by the indigenous peoples of the Americas for thousands of years.  The Indian Shot's invasiveness is exacerbated by its hardy rhizomes, which not only aid its spread but also present a challenge in its removal. The Indian Shot harbors potential medical value, with studies indicating its effectiveness in scavenging free radicals, thus spotlighting it as a possible antioxidant powerhouse.  Photographed in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and Bogotá, Colombia.