Originating from tropical regions of Asia and Africa,  its spread has reached tropical areas globally. As an annual herb, its growth culminates in narrow-pyramidal, plume-like flower heads, boasting a spectrum of colors including red, orange, pink, yellow, and cream. In regions like Africa, it’s also grown as a vegetable, where its flowers, tender leaves, and stems are consumed in a variety of culinary preparations, steamed, boiled, or stir-fried, often mingling with other vegetables in stews and soups. The plant is a trove of nutrition, offering calcium, phosphorus, protein, and vitamins A and C, alongside iron. Photographed in Panama and Florida.