Cecropia angustifolia

Native from Mexico through Central America to Venezuela and Bolivia, this tree in the nettle family grows about 50 feet tall. It colonizes disturbed forests and early regrowth. In Colombia, it is recorded between about 3,100 and 9,200 feet. Its hollow, ringed branches commonly house ants, and the large leaves usually have 11 to 13 lobes. Male and female flowers occur on separate trees; the tiny flowers form cylindrical, yellowish spikes. The developing flower clusters become fleshy multiple fruits. In Colombia, the tree is used to protect small watersheds, restore vegetation, and provide wood. Photographed in the department of Risaralda, Colombia.