Petiveria alliacea (Anamú)

Native to tropical and subtropical America, this perennial herb with a woody base can develop into a small shrub. Its leaves and roots release a strong garlic-like odor when crushed. Tiny whitish flowers are spaced along slender spikes, followed by fruits with hooked bristles that attach to passing animals. It has a long history of traditional medicinal use, and its distinctive smell is associated with sulfur-containing compounds. Animals grazing on it may develop tainted milk and meat, and the plant may cause abortion. Photographed in Colombia.