Begonia spp.
Family: Begoniaceae
What it is like
A succulent creeping herb. The stems are often small. The leaves are alternate, entire and toothed. They are usually unequal on different sides. The flowers are white or pink and in the axils of leaves. The flowers are large. The fruit are usually winged and angular and bear many very small seeds.
There are 900-1,000-1,500 Begonia species.
Where it is found
A tropical plant. They are found throughout the forests of the Philippines. It occurs in the highlands and prefers part shade for growing.
Countries/locations it is found in
Asia, Pacific, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, SE Asia
How it is used for food
The sour leaves and stems are cooked and eaten in meat and fish dishes. The stalks of some kinds are eaten. The leaves are also used for flavouring. (Some kinds are used for medicine.)
The stalks of some species are harvested from the wild and chewed occasionally in Papua New Guinea.
Edible parts
Stalks, leaves