Vaccinium floribundum (Andean Blueberry)

Native from Costa Rica to Venezuela and northwestern Argentina, this evergreen shrub belongs to the heath family. It grows in mountain forests and páramo shrublands; in Colombia, it occurs between about 5,200 and 15,100 feet. Its many branches carry small, stiff leaves with finely toothed edges. Clusters of white, pink, or reddish tubular flowers develop into edible blue-black berries. Buds, flowers, and fruit can occur together on the same plant. Shallow, spreading roots and prolific new shoots help it recolonize damaged páramo, including areas affected by fire. Photographed in Colombia.