A small tree with roots from southern United States to Argentina. Adapted to a variety of ecosystems, from tropical deciduous and evergreen forests to temperate high altitude areas and xerophilous scrub, it thrives best in full sunlight and is often found in disturbed areas like roadsides​​. Its geographical range has expanded beyond its native habitat, with the plant naturalized in warm climates. Pharmacological research has identified over 120 chemical compounds within it, including alkaloids, phenolic acids, flavonoids, and fatty acids, attributing to its various therapeutic benefits such as anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-oxidant, hepatoprotective, and wound healing properties​​. It is an overused ornamental in South America. Photographed in Barranquilla and Bogotá Colombia.