03/24/2024
So unique it needs it own post. 😍🪴
Begonia Melanobullata is a new-to-the-scene species from limestone areas in northwest Vietnam. In its native habitat, it is described as being found clinging to limestone cliffs & rock crevices in shade.
The foliage of B. melanobullata is a jaw-dropping mix of raised black (melano) cones (bullae) that rather resemble teeth, though not sharp to the touch. The tip of each sports a single erect hair-bristle.
Begonia melanobullata is VERY closely related to Begonia ferox and both are similar in appearance when mature. The main distinguishing characteristics are that B. melanobullata forms its "teeth" even as a very young plant, while in B. ferox, these are not typically developed until later, near maturity. In addition, the hair-bristles atop the bullae are deciduous (fall away) over time on B. ferox, while they are persistent (remain attached) on B. melanobullata