Begonia sykakiengii
Begonia sykakiengii
Species Information
Classification and Distribution
Begonia sykakiengii is a monoecious rhizomatous herb endemic to the Philippines, particularly in Panay Island, Capiz Province, Maayon Municipality.
Habitat
This species thrives on moist limestone rock or soil in semishaded conditions, typically found at an elevation of approximately 15 meters.
Distribution
Begonia sykakiengii is restricted to the Municipality of Maayon on Panay Island in the Philippines. It primarily grows on vertical cliffs and exposed or semi-exposed limestone hills.
Characteristics
- Rhizome: Creeping, up to 15 cm or longer, 5–12 mm thick, with internodes 2–8 mm long. - Stipules: Pale yellowish-green, triangular, 7–16 mm long, strongly keeled, with an aristate apex. - Leaves: Alternate, with velutinous petioles and asymmetric, oblique, ovate to widely ovate leaf blades. The upper side of the leaf is variegated with irregular spots of chartreuse, silver grey to whitish, often forming a wide band parallel to the margin. - Inflorescences: Axillary, bisexual and protandrous, dichasial cyme 15–35 cm long, with reddish peduncles.
Flower Details
- Staminate Flower: Tepals white to pinkish, with outer ones widely ovate or obovate to suborbicular, and inner ones obovate. - Pistillate Flower: Ovary pale yellowish-green to reddish, with 3-winged wings. Tepals white to pinkish. - Styles: Three, shortly fused at the base and yellow in color.
Etymology
The species name "sykakiengii" is dedicated to Mr. Sy Ka Kieng, a patron of field trips that supported the research.
Comparison to Similar Species
Begonia sykakiengii resembles Begonia nigritarum but can be distinguished by its larger stipules, leaf blades, bracts at the base of the inflorescence, inflorescence peduncle, and styles.
References
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Care
Cultivating and caring for Begonia sykakiengii requires mimicking its natural habitat conditions. Ensure it has well-draining soil, moderate shade, and appropriate moisture levels.
Photos
External Links
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