The rediscovery of Philippine Begonias

We present the first results of a new revision of the Philippine species of Begonia, starting with the sect. Diploclinium, using field surveys in order to find as many species as possible again. Out of the 39 recorded species of sect. Diploclinium, 32 have been found back in the wild. Three new species have been discovered, as well as four possible subspecies of Begonia nigritarum (Kamel) Steud. Most species occur in a single locality and the numbers of individuals are small. With rampant logging and unchecked quarrying, many species are threatened by habitat disturbance or destruction.