Begonia villosula
Species Information
Classification
Begonia villosula is a monoecious rhizomatous herb found in the Quang Nam Province of Vietnam.
Distribution
This species is known from Tra Giap Commune, Bac Tra My District, Quang Nam Province, Vietnam, and likely occurs in adjacent areas. It thrives in moist rocky areas within broad-leaved evergreen forests at an elevation of approximately 702 meters.
Characteristics
- Rhizome: Stout, velutinous, with congested internodes. - Stem: Erect stems only seen at anthesis, densely velutinous. - Stipules: Yellowish green to reddish, ovate to narrowly triangular-ovate, strongly reflexed, densely hirsute abaxially. - Leaves: Alternate, with oblique ovate to orbicular blades, crenate to crenulate margins, and densely white hirsute upper surface. - Inflorescences: Axillary, monoecious, cymose panicles with dichasial cymes branching. - Flowers: Staminate and pistillate flowers with distinct tepals and other features. - Capsule: Trigonous-ellipsoid, with unequal wings.
Etymology
The specific epithet 'villosula' refers to the hairy leaves of this species.
Proposed Conservation Status
Begonia villosula has been collected in only one location from the type locality, which is a protected forest. Therefore, it is proposed to be categorized as Vulnerable (VU D2) according to IUCN guidelines.
Notes
Begonia villosula resembles B. thomsonii and B. villifolia but can be distinguished by various characteristics, including leaf characteristics, the number of stamens, and ovary features.
Photos
Additional photos of Begonia villosula can be included here.
