Faramea oblongifolia

Native from western Colombia to central Ecuador, this shrub or small tree grows in wet tropical forests. Its opposite leaves are accompanied by stipules that form a sheath around the stem. Fragrant, tubular flowers are white to pale lilac and grow in clusters at the branch tips. The fleshy, rounded fruits become purple to black when ripe and provide food for wild birds. In Colombia, it grows within oak forests, mixed forests and secondary woodland. Local names include cafecillo, cafeto and cuerinegro. Photographed in Colombia.