Bartlettina soridida
The Veracruz moist forests, between the Sierra Madre Oriental and the Gulf of Mexico are home to some wonderful plants. We were trekking in southern Tamaulipas state and had split into two groups as we usually do when we are exploring a new area. We heard our colleagues yelling but could not see them and feared the worst. We ran full out in their direction to help. As we came upon our screaming companions they bolted right past us! By the time we realized that they had inadvertently disturbed a swarming bee colony it was too late! Unfortunately we were now the angry bee’s crosshairs as well! We all ran as fast as we could ducking, bobbing and weaving in every direction! We looked like the three stooges in Mexico! It was only funny well after the bees gave up. Luckily we didn’t suffer too many stings but it did make for a great story later on! On that trip we discovered an amazing shade plant that grew in the filtered shade under the majestic Mayan breadnut, (Brosimum alicastrum) and among other large trees there. We discovered upon our return that the plant is called Ageratum corymbosum and is a vigorous grower with velvety leaves tinged with purple and lovely purple frilly flowers. This plant is fairly new to, and rare in cultivation. These are good sized plants and ready to sell!