PHILIPPINE NATIVE PLANTS: Begonia wadei

MANILA, Philippines - Scientific name: Begonia wadei Merr. & Quis.

Family: Begoniaceae

Distribution: Palawan: Coron Island. Endemic.

Habitat: On sides of limestone hills and boulders.

Description: Ground herb to 30 cm tall. Stems thick, succulent. Leaves with long, reddish petiole to 8 cm long Lamina thick, broad ovate, oblique, to 8 cm long and to 7 cm wide. Margins entire, upper surface green, with prominent reddish veins, lower surface light reddish or light green, with reddish veins. Flowers light green.

Conservation Notes: This beautiful endemic plant grows exclusively on calcareous substrates, especially on sides of limestone boulders. The stems are thick and succulent and the leaves are evergreen or occasionally sheds off during the summer season. The population is rather restricted in distribution and where it is found, there are only few individuals. It does not extend to mainland Palawan. Because of its small population and restricted distribution it is considered a critically endangered species. The leaves are ornamental but it is not known to be cultivated in gardens so far.

For further information contact: Domingo A. Madulid, Philippine National Museum, Botany Division, P. Burgos St., Manila. Tel 5271218. Email: [email protected]