Begonia luxurians
{{Infoboxsp | species = Begonia luxurians | region = South America | country = Brazil | year_published = 1825 | Date_of_Origin = | plant_type = cane-like | section = Eupetalum | Chr_2n = }}
Species Information
Classification and Distribution
Begonia luxurians belongs to the Begoniaceae family and is native to the rainforests of northeastern Brazil.
Habitat
This species thrives in humid, shaded environments near streams and waterfalls.
Characteristics
Begonia luxurians is a fast-growing, cane-like plant that can reach up to 8-10 feet tall. Its striking foliage is the main attraction, featuring large, palmate leaves with finger-like leaflets hanging from reddish-purple stems. The undersides of the leaves are a stunning ruby-copper color. Small, white flowers with yellow centers appear in clusters above the leaves in spring and summer, but the foliage is the true star of the show.
Flower Details
- Color: White with yellow center
- Arrangement: Clusters
- Flowering Time: Spring and summer
Etymology
The specific epithet "luxurians" is derived from the Latin word "luxuriari" meaning "to abound," likely referring to the abundance of large, luxurious leaves.
Comparison to Similar Species
Begonia luxurians can be mistaken for Begonia palmifolia due to their similar leaf shape and size. However, Begonia palmifolia has green leaves on both sides and grows slower than Begonia luxurians.
References
- https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:303429-2
- https://www.gardeningathome.co.uk/plants/begonia-luxurians/
- https://www.bigplantnursery.co.uk/shop/big-leaves/begonia-luxurians/
