Description
- Common names:
- Frosty Begonia, Frost Begonia, Begonia Frosty, Begonia Escarcha
- Botanical name:
- Begonia 'Don Miller', Begonia 'Frosty'
- Description:
- A bushy, everblooming begonia with stunning bronze leaves and delicate white flowers. Sun-tolerant and ideal for hanging baskets or bright indoor spaces with high humidity.
Features
- Rarity:
- Uncommon Find
- Pet & Babies safety:
- Mildly Toxic if Ingested (use caution)
- Air Purifier:
- Moderate Air Purifier (6/10)
- Form factor:
- Upright Bush, Flowering, Trailing Vine, Architectural
- Origin:
- Hybrid cultivar
- Aesthetic advantages:
- Hanging Basket, Bright Living Room, Sunroom, Balcony, Modern, Bohemian, Cottage Style
Care Guide
Care level:
Intermediate+
This begonia requires consistent attention to humidity, moisture levels, and regular grooming for optimal appearance. It's ideal for gardeners with some experience who can maintain a steady care routine.
Light:
Bright / Indirect Light+
Thrives in bright indirect light and can tolerate full sun, making it perfect near south or west-facing windows. If leaves fade or scorch, provide slight afternoon shade.
Water:
Keep Soil Moist+
Water when the top inch of soil feels slightly dry, keeping the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot and stem problems.
Humidity:
Prefers High Humidity+
Prefers humidity levels above 60% for optimal growth. Place on a pebble tray, group with other plants, or use a humidifier to maintain moisture around the foliage.
Temperature:
Prefers Warmth+
Thrives in warm temperatures between 18-27°C / 65-80°F and does not tolerate cold weather. Keep away from cold drafts, air conditioning vents, and temperatures below 15°C / 59°F.
Hardiness zones:
Zones 10-11+
Hardy outdoors year-round only in USDA Zones 10-11 where frost is rare. In cooler zones, grow as a houseplant or move outdoors during warm summer months and bring inside before frost.
Fertilizing:
Feed Monthly+
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength once a month during the growing season (spring through fall). Reduce or stop feeding in winter when growth slows.
Repotting:
Repot Annually+
Repot annually in spring into fresh peat-based compost or a well-draining potting mix. Look for roots growing through drainage holes or slowed growth as signs it's time to repot.
Cleaning:
Wipe Leaves Regularly+
Gently wipe the shiny bronze leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and maintain their attractive luster. Regular cleaning also helps prevent pests and allows better light absorption.
Propagation:
Propagates by Cuttings+
Easily propagated by taking stem tip cuttings in spring or summer and placing them in moist soil or water until roots develop. Pinching tips during propagation encourages bushier growth.