Begonia jubar
Begonia jubar
Description
Monoecious rhizomatous herb with yellowish-green rhizome, dense hirsute internodes, and rose-pink persistent stipules. Leaves are alternate, ovate, and exhibit colorful patterns.
Leaves
Alternate leaves with petioles that are carmine to pale vermilion. Leaf blades are asymmetric, ovate to widely ovate, and exhibit distinctive venation patterns.
Inflorescences
Axillary, dichasial cymes with olive-green to crimson peduncles. Deciduous bracts are yellow-green.
Flowers
- Staminate flowers have pinkish-white tepals. - Pistillate flowers have pinkish-white tepals and 3-winged ovaries.
Distribution and Ecology
Endemic to Lak district in Dak Lak Province, Vietnam. Grows on silicate cliff faces in semi-shade, under the canopy of various tree and herbaceous species.
Etymology
From Latin "jubar" meaning brightness, referring to its outstanding bright veins.
Conservation Status
Considered Vulnerable due to its rarity and potential horticultural trade threat.
Notes
Begonia jubar is most closely allied to Begonia rigidifolia but has distinct characteristics, including glabrous stipules, leaf base, and larger flowers.
