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| Begonia occidentalis Naive, Ancheta & Alaman, in Naive, Alaman, Villanueva, Baul et Ancheta, 2026. |
Abstract
Mindanao, the second-largest island in the Philippines, is a center of plant endemism shaped by its complex geology, varied topography, and high habitat heterogeneity. Continued botanical explorations in the region have led to the discovery of Begonia occidentalis, which is herein described and illustrated. It morphologically resembles B. copelandii in its persistent stipules and capsule with strongly unequal wings, but can be readily distinguished by its arachnoid petiole, ovate leaf lamina with slightly overlapping cordate base and acuminate apex, a weakly serrate margin with densely conspicuous maroon hairs, and dorsally glandular floral bracts. A comprehensive taxonomic account is presented, including detailed morphological description, geographical distribution, habitat, phenology, conservation status and a discussion on its taxonomic affinities. Furthermore, we lectotypify the name B. copelandii in accordance with the International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi and plants (Madrid Code).
Biodiversity, Cucurbitales, endemic, typification, Zamboanga peninsula, Eudicots
Begonia occidentalis Naive, Ancheta & Alaman
Mark Arcebal K. NAIVE, Bobby B. ALAMAN, Grace V. VILLANUEVA, Melbert James G. BAUL and Donnafe J. ANCHETA. 2026. Begonia occidentalis (Begoniaceae, section Baryandra), A New Species from Mindanao Island, southern Philippines with notes on B. copelandii. Phytotaxa. 749(1); 95-102. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.749.1.7 [2026-03-25]
