Published April 21, 2021, 5:00 PM
By Jenna V. Genio
Begonia bangsamoro was published as a new species from Mindanao in the international scientific journal Phytotaxa on April 16, 2021. Before it was confirmed as a novel species, the unique
Begonia was previously spotted throughout the years in Bukidnon. When botanist Dave Buenavista chanced upon the plant in Lanao del Sur, he sent the photos to
Begonia specialists who suggested its uniqueness. While
B. bangsamoro may share similarities to other Philippine Begonias with lacerated leaves, further research found differences in the flowers.
Begonia bangsamoro produces attractive leaves with lacerate margins and dainty white flowers. The plant has been categorized under the section