Hooker's lips, scientifically known as Psychotria elata, is a tropical plant native to rainforests in Costa Rica, Ecuador and other Central and South American countries.

The most eye-catching part of the plant is its beautiful pair of red bracts that look like "luscious lips," from where the plant acquires its common name. Its gorgeous and distinctive shape helps the plant attract pollinators such as hummingbirds and butterflies.

The flower of the plant is not as notable as its bracts, which is white and fragrant and usually emerges from the center of the "red hot" bracts between December and March.

People in Central America gift the plant to their family and friends to show their love, especially on Valentine's day.  Its bark and leaves are also used by locals to treat several diseases including skin irritation. 

However, the plant is slowly vanishing due to deforestation and climate change. Hence, this rare plant species needs special care and protection so we don't have to kiss it goodbye.

Enjoy the captivating beauty of hooker's lips in the pictures below. 

(Top image via VCG)

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