Begonia acida
| Species | acetosa |
|---|---|
| Region | South America |
| Country | Brazil |
| Year Described | 1831 |
| Plant Type | rhizomatous |
| Section | Pritzelia |
| Chr 2n | 38 |
Species Information
Classification and Distribution
Begonia acida belongs to the Begoniaceae family and is native to the Atlantic Forest of South America, specifically Brazil and Venezuela. It typically inhabits humid lowland forests and riverbanks.
Habitat
This species thrives in warm, humid environments with filtered sunlight or light shade.
Characteristics
Begonia acida is a perennial plant with thick, fleshy stalks and large, glossy green leaves. The leaves are palmately lobed with 5-7 rounded lobes and have a distinctive acidic taste, hence the specific epithet "acida." The underside of the leaves may be slightly paler or have a reddish tinge. Clusters of small, white flowers with yellow centers bloom on branched inflorescences throughout the year.
Flower Details
- Color: White with yellow center
- Arrangement: Branched inflorescences
- Flowering Time: Throughout the year
Etymology
The specific epithet "acida" is derived from the Latin word "acidus" meaning "sour" or "acidic," referring to the taste of the leaves.
Comparison to Similar Species
Begonia acida can be mistaken for Begonia obliqua due to their similar leaf shape and size. However, Begonia obliqua has leaves with a pointed base and less pronounced lobes compared to Begonia acida.
References
- https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:327410-2
- https://www.begoniasociety.org/begonia-database/plants/begonia-acida
- https://www.plantrescue.com/posts/begonia-acida/
