Begonia matillanoae
Species Information
Publication/Authors
Edinburgh Journal of Botany 83, Article 2102: 1-10 (2026). Authors: Y. P. Ang, A. B. Marcos-Langbao, L. M. Camangeg, E. D. Jose, J. M. L. Diego, and M. N. Tamayo.
Origin
The species is native to the Philippines, specifically Palawan Island.
Growth Type
It is a rhizomatous herb. The rhizome is green to brown, 4–5 mm thick, up to roughly 12 cm long, and white-pilose with internodes 3–5 mm long.
Section
Baryandra
Description
Distribution
The species is known only from its type locality on Mount Capoas within the Malampaya Sound Protected Landscape and Seascape in northwestern Palawan.
Habitat
Begonia matillanoae grows in deeply shaded lowland forests, specifically on large granite boulders along streams. It has been observed at an elevation of approximately 560 m a.s.l.. The surrounding forest includes tree species such as Dipterocarpus gracilis, Pterospermum diversifolium, and Syzygium copelandii.
Flower
Etymology
The species is named in honor of the late Ms. Ma. Victoria D. Matillano. She was a former member of the World Wide Fund for Nature, noted for her contributions to environmental conservation, community education, and the protection of Irrawaddy dolphins and coral reefs in Palawan, particularly within the MSPLS.
Synonyms
No synonyms
Comparison to Similar Species
Begonia matillanoae most closely resembles Begonia cabanillasii.
Photos
Hybrids
Conservation status
The authors propose a conservation status of Critically Endangered (CR) based on IUCN guidelines. The species is known from a single location with an estimated population of fewer than 100 mature individuals. Threats include timber extraction and a decline in tree cover in the surrounding forest.
External Links
References
Ang, Y. P., Marcos-Langbao, A. B., Camangeg, L. M., Jose, E. D., Diego, J. M. L., & Tamayo, M. N. (2026). Begonia matillanoae (Begoniaceae), a new species from Malampaya Sound Protected Landscape and Seascape, Palawan Island, Philippines. Edinburgh Journal of Botany, 83, Article 2102, 1-10.
