Melochia tomentosa

Native to tropical and subtropical America, this shrub grows to about 8 to 10 feet tall and occurs in dry forests, fields and savannas. Its young stems and toothed leaves bear star-shaped hairs. Small clusters of pink to purple flowers have five petals and occur in two forms, with either long or short styles and corresponding differences in stamen length. The dry fruits are five-angled, pyramidal capsules with pointed beaks; they split open to release brown seeds. Its flowers attract bees, nectar-seeking wasps and small butterflies, including hairstreaks, blues and skippers. It tolerates dry conditions and can flower throughout the year. Photographed in the department of Atlantico, Colombia.