Begonia crassicaulis
Species Information
Classification and Distribution
Begonia crassicaulis belongs to the Begoniaceae family and is native to Central America, specifically Mexico (Guerrero, Oaxaca, Chiapas) and Guatemala.
Habitat
This species thrives in wet tropical environments, often found in moist forests and along riverbanks.
Characteristics
Begonia crassicaulis is a subshrub with thick, upright stems and large, glossy green leaves. The leaves are lobed and have slightly wavy margins. Pink flowers with yellow centers bloom in clusters on branched inflorescences. A unique feature is its deciduous nature, losing all its leaves during the short winter days and then blooming profusely in spring from the bare stems.
Flower Details
- Color: Pink with yellow center
- Arrangement: Branched inflorescences
- Flowering Time: Late winter to early spring
Etymology
The specific epithet "crassicaulis" is derived from the Latin words "crassus" (thick) and "caulis" (stem), referring to the thick stems of the plant.
Comparison to Similar Species
Begonia crassicaulis can be mistaken for Begonia carolineifolia due to similar rhizome growth however the difference is the compound leaves.
References
- https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:104473-1
- https://www.logees.com/begonia-crassicaulis-begonia-crassicaulis.html
- https://www.begonias.org/begonia-crassicaulis-lindl-by-paul-tsamtsis/
