Heppiella ulmifolia

Native from Colombia to Peru, this herb or small shrub grows on rocky slopes and disturbed ground along roads and streams in the Andes. It can also climb through surrounding shrubs. Scaly underground rhizomes help it survive dry periods. Hairy stems bear opposite, toothed leaves with a wrinkled upper surface. Red tubular flowers grow in small clusters and attract hummingbird visitors. The dry capsules open into two valves to release the seeds. Photographed in Colombia.