Macrocnemum roseum

Native from Costa Rica through tropical South America, this shrub or tree grows in moist forests, often along streams and forest roads. Mature trees develop deep, irregular grooves along their trunks. Large, opposite leaves broaden toward their tips, and conspicuous green stipules protect the growing shoots before falling. Dense clusters of small, bright pink flowers attract butterflies and hummingbirds. The capsules split into two valves, releasing small, winged seeds dispersed by wind. In rural Panama, its hard, heavy wood is used for house construction. Photographed in Peru.