Definition

Noun A species of flowering plant in the family Begoniaceae, native to South Africa. It is characterized by being tuberous or semi-tuberous, with shallowly lobed ovate leaves and small white flowers.

Usage

This term is used specifically in botanical and horticultural contexts to identify this particular species of begonia. * The Begonia dregei is prized by collectors for its delicate foliage and form. * This section of the greenhouse features several South African species, including Begonia dregei.

Advanced Usage

• The species name "dregei" is an example of a botanical epithet, often used to honor a person (in this case, the plant collector Johann Franz Drège) or denote a geographical origin.
• In taxonomic writing, the genus name () is italicized, and the specific epithet () is written in lowercase and also italicized.

Variants and Related Words

• Begonia (n): The genus to which this species belongs.
• Tuberous (adj): Having tubers; a type of storage organ.
• Ovate (adj): Shaped like the longitudinal section of an egg; broader at the base.

Synonyms

• Maple-leaf begonia: A common name sometimes used for this species, referring to the shape of its leaves.

Different Meanings

This term has no other common meanings outside of its use as a proper noun for this specific plant species. It is not used idiomatically or in phrasal verbs.

Noun

1. tuberous or semi-tuberous South African begonia having shallowly lobed ovate leaves and small white flowers