Hesperomeles obtusifolia
Native from Venezuela to Bolivia, this Andean shrub grows around high-elevation woodland and in open grass pƔramo. Branches often end in a sharp spine, and the small, stiff leaves have toothed edges. Short clusters carry white flowers that may be tinged pink or red, with numerous stamens surrounding the center. Rounded, fleshy fruits develop after flowering and change from red to dark colors as they mature. The fruits are edible and provide food for birds. The shrub is used in Colombian pƔramo restoration. Photographed in Colombia.