Begonia nyishiorum

Forest officials in Arunachal Pradesh have discovered a new flowering plant, named “Begonia nyishiorum”. This species is endemic to the state’s East Kameng district.

Details of the Discovery:

• Publication: An article detailing the discovery was published on June 23 in the journal Novon.
• Expedition: The plant was found during an expedition titled “Documentation of rare flora and fauna of East Kameng district,” conducted by the Seppa forest division from July 2024 to January 2025.
• Habitat: Begonia nyishiorum thrives on moist, shaded mountain slopes at elevations between 1,500 and 3,000 meters above sea level.
• Unique Feature: It is instantly recognizable by the dense crimson, fringed scales that sheath its light green petioles. This unique indumentum (a covering of hairs or scales) has never been seen before in any Asian begonia species

(Source: NIE)