Lagerstroemia speciosa (Queen's Crape Myrtle)

Native to tropical southern Asia,, this large tree boasts beautiful pink to purple flowers. Growing best in warm, humid climates the flowers manifest in erect panicles​. The leaves of this tree are known to contain over 40 bioactive compounds which have been associated with a myriad of health benefits including lowering blood sugar levels. Other pharmacological effects associated with Lagerstroemia speciosa include antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticancer, hypolipidemic, anti-obesity, and analgesic properties​. Photographed in Barranquilla, Colombia.