Begonia acida
Species | acetosa |
---|---|
Region | South America |
Country | Brazil |
Year published | 1831 |
Date of Origin | NA |
Plant Type | rhizomatous |
Section | Pritzelia |
Chr 2n | 38 |
Species Information[edit]
Classification and Distribution[edit]
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[edit]
This species thrives in warm, humid environments with filtered sunlight or light shade.
Characteristics[edit]
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[edit]
- Color: White with yellow center
- Arrangement: Branched inflorescences
- Flowering Time: Throughout the year
Etymology[edit]
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[edit]
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[edit]
- 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/