Begonia palmata
| Species | Begonia palmata |
|---|---|
| Region | Asia |
| Country | Through Out Asia |
| Year published | 1825 (Don) |
| Date of Origin | |
| Plant Type | Rhizomatous |
| Section | Platycentrum |
| Chr 2n | 30 |
Species Information
Classification and Distribution
Begonia palmata is a widespread species found throughout eastern Asia, including Northeast India, China, Nepal, Sikkim, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam. It is typically found at elevations of 200–2150 meters.
Habitat
Begonia palmata is a shade-loving plant that prefers moist, well-drained soil. It is often found in association with streams and rivers.
Characteristics
Rhizomatous, erect, monoecious herb, 45–100 cm high. Leaves are narrowly to broadly ovate, to almost orbicular, with a base that is truncate or cordate. The upper surface of the leaves is green, sometimes with pale ring marking, and the underside is green or reddish.
Flower Details
The inflorescence is cymose, axillary to terminal, with 2–6 female and 2–6 male flowers. Male flowers have 4 tepals, and the androecium has 40–80 stamens. Female flowers have 5 equal tepals and an ovary that is 2-locular.
Etymology
The specific epithet "palmata" refers to the palmate leaves of this species.
Comparison to Similar Species
Begonia palmata is similar to Begonia longifolia, but can be distinguished by its palmate leaves and white or pink flowers. Begonia longifolia has lobed leaves and yellow flowers.
References
Prodromus Florae Nepalensis (Don 1825), Flora Indica (Roxburgh 1832), and various other publications.
Photos
External Links
Links to pages related to this species
