Begonia maculata
1
2
Begonia maculata
| Species | maculata |
|---|---|
| Region | South America |
| Country | Brazil |
| Year published | 1821 |
| Date of Origin | 1821 |
| Plant Type | Cane-Like |
| Section | Gaerdtia |
| Chr 2n | 40, 56? |
Species Information
Classification
Begonia maculata is a species of begonia native to southeast Brazil. It is classified in the genus Begonia, section Pleio begonia.
Distribution
Begonia maculata is native to the Atlantic rainforest of Brazil, with occurrences confirmed in the Brazilian states of Espírito Santo and Rio de Janeiro. It has been introduced into Mexico, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, and Argentina.
Habitat
Begonia maculata grows naturally in the understory of tropical rainforests. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade.
Characteristics
Begonia maculata is a perennial rhizomatous begonia. It has dark green, oblong leaves with silvery-white spots. The undersides of the leaves are red-purple. The plant grows white flowers in clusters with yellow centers on a single stem.
Flower Details
Begonia maculata flowers bloom from spring to summer. The flowers are dioecious, meaning that male and female flowers are produced on separate plants. The male flowers are slightly smaller and have yellow stamens, whereas the female flowers have carpels.
Etymology
The name maculata comes from the latin word meaning "spotted". The name refers to the plant's distinctive spotted leaves.
Comparison to Similar Species
(Need more information)
References
The Begonia Society: Begonia maculata Wikipedia: Begonia maculata Plants of the World Online: Begonia maculata
Photos
External Links
Begonia maculata on the American Begonia Society website Begonia maculata on the International Begonia Society website
