Begonia carolineifolia
| Species | Begonia caroliniifolia |
|---|---|
| Region | Mexico and Central America |
| Country | Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Belize |
| Year published | 1859 |
| Date of Origin | |
| Plant Type | rhizomatous |
| Section | Gireoudia |
| Chr 2n | 28 |
Species Information
Classification and Distribution
Begonia caroliniifolia belongs to the Begoniaceae family and is native to Central and southern Mexico, extending north to Guatemala, Honduras, and Belize.
Habitat
This species thrives in tropical rainforests and cloud forests, often found near streams and rivers.
Characteristics
Begonia caroliniifolia is a rhizomatous plant with thick, woody stems. The large, palmately compound leaves resemble palm fronds, hence the common names "palm leaf begonia" or "hand begonia". The leaves are green with a reddish-brown tinge on the underside. White or pale pink flowers with yellow centers bloom on tall, branched inflorescences.
Flower Details
- Color: White or pale pink with yellow center
- Arrangement: Branched inflorescences
- Flowering Time: Spring to summer
Etymology
The specific epithet "caroliniifolia" is derived from the Latin words "carolinus" (related to Carolina) and "folium" (leaf), possibly referring to the resemblance of the leaves to those of palm trees from the Carolinas in the United States.
Comparison to Similar Species
Begonia caroliniifolia can be mistaken for Begonia acerifolia due to their similar leaf shape and size. However, Begonia acerifolia has white flowers with a yellow center, while Begonia caroliniifolia can have pink flowers. Additionally, Begonia acerifolia is native to the Andes Mountains in South America, while Begonia caroliniifolia is found in Central America.
References
- https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:327437-2
- https://www.begonias.org/begonia-caroliniifolia-regel/
- https://www.plantsrescue.com/posts/begonia-caroliniifolia/
