Ceratostema lanigerum

Ceratostema lanigerum is a rare species of flowering plant in the Ericaceae family, primarily found in the cloud forests of the Andes in Colombia and Ecuador. This plant is distinguished by its striking, tubular flowers that range in color from vivid red to deep blue, often with a glossy appearance, which is reflected in its name "glans," meaning "acorn" in Latin, likely referring to the shiny, nut-like texture of its fruits. Ceratostema glans thrives in high-altitude environments, typically between 2,000 to 3,500 meters, where it grows as an epiphyte or terrestrial shrub. The plant's specialized habitat and striking appearance make it of particular interest to botanists and plant collectors, although its conservation status is a concern due to habitat loss and the limited range in which it naturally occurs.