Research Paper

Begonia wumingensis, a new species of Begonia (sect. Coelocentrum) with long rhizomes from Central Guangxi of China

Shikai Guan, Daike Tian, Jinye Zhou, Zhanwen Huang, Haixia Yan, Dayan Tao, Qian Song, Jiashi Lu

Published on: 03 September 2025

Page: 626 - 630

DOI: 10.6165/tai.2025.70.626

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    Abstract

    Begonia wumingensis is a new species of Begonia section Coelocentrum discovered in the broad-leaved forest of the karst mountainous area in central Guangxi of China. It has extremely long creeping rhizomes, and is similar to B. longiornithophylla in morphology, but the main differences lie in its rhizome internodes and petioles usually subglabrous when mature, stipules glabrous and without dorsal ridge, leaves flat and subglabrous, flowers lacking glandular hairs, longer abaxial wings of the fruits, and early flowering time. Based on its small population, narrow distribution range, and continuing decrease in population size due to human’s disturbances, it is assessed as Critically Endangered according to Guidelines for Using IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.

    Keyword: Begonia auritistipula, Begonia longiornithophylla, Begonia sect. Coelocentrum, karst landform, long rhizome, new taxon

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