Begonia pteridiformis
Begonia pteridiformis
Species Information
Classification and Distribution
Begonia pteridiformis is a perennial monoecious herb endemic to Peninsular Thailand. It belongs to Begonia sect. Parvibegonia, which is known for its tuberous habit and 2-locular fruits with enlarged wings.
Habitat
This begonia species thrives in wet limestone areas, particularly in deeply shaded regions within dry evergreen forests. It can be found at altitudes ranging from 30 to 100 meters.
Distribution
Begonia pteridiformis is endemic to Peninsular Thailand.
Characteristics
Begonia pteridiformis is characterized by its unique appearance, with leaves arranged in a manner that resembles a pinnate compound leaf of a fern. It has 8-30 narrowly lanceolate leaves per plant, each with a dentate margin and a caudate or acuminate apex.
Flower Details
The staminate flowers have 4 plain white tepals, and the androecium is zygomorphic, shaped like a bunch of bananas, with 10-12 yellow stamens. The pistillate flowers have unequal tepals, two styles fused at the base, and a kidney-shaped stigmatic band.
Etymology
The specific epithet "pteridiformis" is derived from the characteristic leaf arrangement of this species, which resembles the appearance of a fern frond.
References
Ecology
Provide information about the ecological preferences and habitat of Begonia pteridiformis.
Notes
Begonia pteridiformis is unique within its section due to its large number of leaves, their narrowly lanceolate shape, and their arrangement that resembles fern fronds.
External Links
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