Orthosiphon aristatus var. aristatus

Native from tropical and subtropical Asia to northern Australia, this perennial shrub or subshrub has a woody base and is known as cat’s whiskers. It grows in several forest types, at forest edges and in disturbed roadside habitats. Its two-lipped flowers are arranged in upright clusters, with long stamens projecting far beyond the petals like whiskers. Flowers can be white or purple. The variety can flower and fruit throughout the year in tropical conditions. Its leaves have a long history of use in traditional Southeast Asian herbal preparations. Photographed in Colombia.