Heppiella ulmifolia

Native to northern and western South America, this small herb or subshrub grows in Andean habitats across a broad elevation range. The succulent shoots have reddish-brown stems and a covering of hairs. Opposite leaves have toothed margins and a strongly blistered or wrinkled upper surface. Red tubular flowers develop in small groups, with the corolla broadening through its middle. The fruit is a dry, egg-shaped capsule that opens into two valves. Its vivid flowers give the plant ornamental value. Photographed in Colombia.