Jatropha multifida

Native to Mexico and the Caribbean, this shrub or small tree grows in seasonally dry tropical habitats. Its large leaves are deeply divided into narrow lobes, while branching flower clusters carry coral-red flowers. Male and female flowers occur in the same cluster. The green, three-part capsules ripen yellow and contain three seeds. Its nectar attracts butterflies. It tolerates drought. It has naturalized in Colombia. All parts are toxic, especially the seeds. Photographed in the central Andes mountain range of Colombia.