Lippia americana (Varita de Lazo)

Native to tropical America, this shrub or small tree grows primarily in seasonally dry regions. In Colombia it occurs across the Andes, Caribbean lowlands, Orinoquia, and Magdalena Valley, from near sea level to about 4,300 feet. Habitats include woodland, savanna, scrub, and disturbed ground. Known locally as varita de lazo or velita, it has been recorded in traditional medicinal use. Its branches bear pointed leaves and compact, rounded to pyramidal flower heads. Photographed in Colombia.