A common. everblooming, large shrub originating from Florida to Argentina. Traditionally, it's employed in herbal medicine for conditions like athlete's foot, skin lesions, and insect bites. The leaves, stems, and flowers are known for their anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and diuretic properties, while a more scientific examination reveals the presence of ephedrine in scant amounts in its leaves, along with antinociceptive effects, underscoring its potential in pain management​. There are cultivars. The fruits are edible. Photographed in the central Andes mountain range of Colombia (Cordillera Central).