The Begonia picta is a true botanical marvel. This mesmerizing plant, also known as the “Painted-Leaf Begonia”, boasts an array of striking features that make it a favorite among plant enthusiasts and collectors.

This is my favourite Begonia species from the Western ghats…!

The species name ‘picta’ means ‘painted’ referring to the variegation on the leaves.

Painted Perfection – The leaves are medium-sized and asymmetrically shaped, featuring prominent veining and a striking color palette. The most common leaf coloration consists of dark green with silver-white specks and striking red undersides. This contrast is reminiscent of a living canvas splattered with paint, hence the name “Painted-Leaf Begonia.”

Leaf size can vary, but they are generally around 3-6 inches (7.5-15 cm) in length. There are two forms of leaf – One vareigated and another dark form – both of which can be seen below in one frame.

Begonia picta evolves as it grows. The colors and patterns on the leaves may intensify or change slightly as the plant matures, adding to the ever-evolving beauty of this natural artwork.

While Begonia picta is primarily valued for its leaves, it does produce small, inconspicuous flowers. The flowers are typically pink or white and appear on slender stems above the foliage. Although the foliage is striking, the flowers are equally beautiful if you have the patience to take a closer look!

Closeup of the pollen sacs!

The female flowers are very beautiful. Notice the bulged ovary which is absent in the male flowers.

The leaves have a brilliant blue iridescent when light is incident on the correct angle. Below is the same population of Begonia picta photographed with and without turning the flash on. You can see how iridescent blue the leaves shimmer!

Begonia picta is a testament to the artistry of nature. It’s a reminder that we don’t have to look far to find inspiration; sometimes, all we need to do is observe the small, everyday wonders of the natural world. Each leaf of the Begonia picta is a stroke of nature’s brush, a masterpiece that endures and evolves, teaching us to appreciate the art that surrounds us in the simplest and most unexpected places.

The botanical world is a treasure trove of extraordinary plant species, each with its unique characteristics and beauty. Impatiens leschenaultii, often referred to as Leschenault’s Balsam, is a botanical gem that belongs to the family Balsaminaceae.

It was first discovered in the early 19th century by the French botanist Jean-Baptiste Leschenault de La Tour, hence its name.

This plant is native to the Western Ghats of India, a region renowned for its rich biodiversity.

This balsam species thrives in moist, shaded environments, often found growing in the understory of tropical rainforests. It’s well-suited for the cooler, high-altitude regions of the Western Ghats.

The leaves are deeply serrated and glossy green, with silvery veins that create an intricate pattern.

The flowers of Impatiens leschenaultii are small and delicate, usually a pale pink or white.

After pollination, Impatiens leschenaultii produces slender capsules containing seeds. When the capsules mature, they explode upon touch, dispersing the seeds, which is a mechanism characteristic of the Impatiens genus.

Impatiens leschenaultii, like many plant species, faces threats due to habitat loss and deforestation. Conservation efforts are crucial to preserve this botanical gem and the unique biodiversity of the Western Ghats.

In the enchanting world of botanical wonders, the Swan Flower, scientifically known as Globba sessiliflora, stands out as a captivating and delicate species.

Globba sessiliflora, also referred to as the Swan Flower, is a tropical and subtropical plant native to Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. The common name “Swan Flower” derives from the uncanny resemblance of its flowers to the elegant necks of swans.

Globba sessiliflora typically grows from rhizomes, which are underground stems. The plant forms clumps and can reach heights of 1 to 2 feet.

The plant’s leaves are long, lance-shaped, and feature an attractive dark green color. The leaves grow in pairs along the stem, creating a striking visual effect.

The flowers are primarily small and tubular, but the most captivating part of the plant is the unique, pure white, or pale pink bracts that encase the flowers. These bracts extend outward, creating the graceful swan-like appearance.

Globba sessiliflora has historical significance in traditional medicine and culinary practices. In various Southeast Asian cultures, parts of this plant have been used for their potential medicinal properties and as a culinary ingredient.