Begonia normaaguilariae (section Baryandra, Begoniaceae), a new species from the limestone forests of Samar Island, Philippines

Abstract

Begonia normaaguilariae, a new Philippine Begonia species from the section Baryandra is described and illustrated herewith. It bears a superficial resemblance to B. biliranensis with a repand leaf margin, and obovoid anther shape. However, the new species is unique in reference to its conduplicate stipule, longer capsule pedicel length, and completely glabrous rhizome, petioles, and leaves. Begonia normaaguilariae was only recorded from the limestone forests of Samar Island Natural Park, Samar Island, Philippines. Following the Red List criteria of the IUCN Standards and Petitions Subcommittee, B. normaaguilariae is hereby proposed as Critically Endangered.