Helicteres guazumifolia

Native to tropical parts of the Americas, this branching shrub grows in secondary woodland, forest edges, and other open or disturbed habitats. Plants commonly reach about six feet tall, though their stature varies considerably. The oval to egg-shaped leaves have pointed tips and rounded bases. Bright red, spoon-shaped petals extend from a tubular, slightly inflated calyx. A long, straight column carries the reproductive parts beyond the petals. Hummingbirds pollinate the flowers. Nectar is produced during daylight on the first day a flower opens. The dark capsules twist into a conspicuous spiral as they develop. Photographed in Colombia.