Gomphrena globosa

Native to Bolivia, northeastern Brazil, northern Brazil, southeastern Brazil, west-central Brazil, and Colombia and nearby regions, this is an herbaceous plant in the Amaranthaceae family. It is now cultivated globally. The clover-like flower heads are predominantly in shades of pink, purple, or white. These stiff, papery bracts, apart from being a visual delight, hold their shape and color well even after drying. Traditionally, it has been utilized in medicine, with antihypertensive properties among its benefits. Modern applications have seen its flowers being used as a source of natural colorant in food products, thanks to the betacyanin-rich extract derived from them. It can be invasive. Photographed in Panama.