Begonia fulgurata
Species Information[edit]
Classification[edit]
Begonia fulgurata is a newly discovered species of Begonia. It belongs to the section Diploclinium within the Begonia genus.
Distribution[edit]
This species is endemic to Chiang Mai Province in northern Thailand, specifically in the Doi Lohn area. It is known only from the type locality.
Habitat[edit]
Begonia fulgurata can be found in epipetric or terrestrial habitats. It has a tuberous growth habit and is adapted to the local conditions of northern Thailand.
Characteristics[edit]
Begonia fulgurata is a monoecious, perennial plant. It has erect or ascending stems that can grow up to 40 cm in length. The leaves are oblique, pendent, and distant, with ovate-lanceolate to widely ovate lamina. The upper side of the leaves is characterized by fine silvery-white venation, resembling lightning. The inflorescence is a terminal, bisexual, cymosely branching panicle. Staminate flowers have two tepals, while pistillate flowers have five tepals. The ovary is 3-locular.
Flower Details[edit]
Staminate flowers of Begonia fulgurata have two white to pinkish tepals, and the androecium is zygomorphic with approximately 25 yellow stamens. Pistillate flowers have a pedicel, a pale green or pinkish ovary with three wings, and five white to pinkish tepals. The styles are yellowish green and bifid.
Etymology[edit]
The specific epithet "fulgurata" is derived from the fine, silvery-white venation on the upper surface of the leaves, which resembles lightning.
Comparison to Similar Species[edit]
Begonia fulgurata shares some similarities with other Begonia species like B. integrifolia and B. grandis in terms of having tuberous growth, erect stems, and a periodically dormant habit. However, it can be distinguished by its densely hirsute leaves with maroon patches and silvery-white veins, as well as the dense glandular hairy inflorescence and specific characteristics of its flowers.
References[edit]
This information is based on the research article titled "Begonia fulgurata, a new species from northern Thailand" published in Blumea in 2017 by C.-I. Peng, C.-W. Lin, and T. Phutthai.
Photos[edit]
External Links[edit]
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