Begonia heracleifolia is known to be a large Mexican rhizomatous species with deep green leaves that often b on black.  The leaves range from 8 to 14 inches (20 to 36cm) across. The flowers, which normally are borne in the Spring, are pink.  Since the begonia has star-like leaves with pointed lobes, Begonia heracleifolia has claimed the common name of the Star Begonia. 

The largest leaf of the specimen shown above is approximately 12 inches (30cm) wide and 8.5 inches (21cm) in height.  The underside of the leaves are burgundy.  There are 9 known variations to the species.  Our original plant was a gift from a begonia collector in Miami and was reported to have been d at a show at Fairchild Tropical Gardens.  My thanks to Bill Claybaugh, Conservation Chairman of the American Begonia Society for his assistance in identifying the specimen.  You can see Bill's website at http://absastro.tripod.com/