Begonia carolineifolia
| Species | Begonia caroliniifolia |
|---|---|
| Region | Mexico and Central America |
| Country | Mexico, Guatemala |
| Year published | 1859 |
| Date of Origin | |
| Plant Type | rhizomatous |
| Section | Gireoudia |
| Chr 2n | 28 |
Species Information
Classification and Distribution
Begonia caroliniifolia belongs to the Begoniaceae family and is native to Central and southern Mexico, extending to Guatemala.
Habitat
This species thrives in tropical rainforests and cloud forests, often found near streams and rivers.
Characteristics
Begonia caroliniifolia is a rhizomatous plant with thick, woody stems. The large, palmately compound leaves resemble palm fronds, hence the common names "palm leaf begonia" or "hand begonia". The leaves are green with a reddish-brown tinge on the underside. White or pale pink flowers with yellow centers bloom on tall, branched inflorescences.
Flower Details
- Color: White or pale pink with yellow center
- Arrangement: Branched inflorescences
- Flowering Time: Spring to summer
Etymology
Comparison to Similar Species
Begonia carolineifolia is very similar to Begonia thiemei with both having dark green compound leaves. The biggest difference between the two is the rhizome of Begonia carolineifolia grows more thicker and upright compared to the creeping nature of Begonia thiemei.
References
- https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:327437-2
- https://www.begonias.org/begonia-caroliniifolia-regel/
- https://www.plantsrescue.com/posts/begonia-caroliniifolia/
Photos
