The frailejón is a unique plant native to the high-altitude regions of the Andes mountains in South America. It belongs to the genus Espeletia and is characterized by its thick, fuzzy leaves and tall flower stalks. These plants thrive in cold, moist environments and play a crucial role in their ecosystem by helping to retain water in the soil. Frailejones can grow up to several meters tall and are often found in paramo ecosystems, which are high-altitude grasslands. They are important for biodiversity, providing habitat for various species, and are also vital for water regulation in their mountainous regions.