Casearia guianensis

Native from southern Mexico through Central America and the Caribbean to tropical South America, this deciduous shrub or small tree in the willow family usually grows about 10 to 20 feet tall. It inhabits lowland forests and clearings; in Colombia, it is recorded between about 33 and 820 feet. Its finely toothed leaves contain translucent dots and streaks. The small white or cream flowers have a faint sweet scent. The fruits split into three sections, exposing seeds with fleshy coverings that attract birds. Its wood is used for rural construction, tool handles, and fuel. Photographed in the department of Santander, Colombia.