Description
- Common names:
- Begonia Striped, Bedding Begonia, Striped Begonia, Begonia Listada, Begonia Rayada
- Botanical name:
- Begonia listada
- Description:
- A stunning Brazilian flowering shrub with compact growth, velvety leaves featuring bright green center stripes, rich mahogany undersides, and delicate white blooms.
Features
- Rarity:
- Uncommon Find
- Pet & Babies safety:
- Mildly Toxic if Ingested (use caution)
- Air Purifier:
- Moderate Air Purifier (6/10)
- Form factor:
- Upright Bush, Variegated Leaves, Flowering, Architectural
- Origin:
- Brazil
- Aesthetic advantages:
- Living Room, Bedroom, Office, Bookshelf, Bohemian style, Modern interior, Windowsill display, Plant collection centerpiece
Care Guide
Care level:
Intermediate+
Begonia 'Striped' requires consistent care with attention to humidity, light, and watering needs. It's not overly forgiving of neglect but rewards attentive care with stunning foliage and blooms.
Light:
Bright / Indirect Light+
Place near an east or north-facing window where it receives bright, filtered light. Direct sunlight will scorch the delicate velvet leaves, while too little light will fade the striking stripe pattern.
Water:
Keep Soil Moist+
Water when the top inch of soil feels slightly dry to the touch, keeping the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Begonias are susceptible to root rot from overwatering, so ensure proper drainage.
Humidity:
Prefers High Humidity+
Thrives in humidity levels above 50-60%. Place on a pebble tray filled with water, group with other plants, or use a humidifier to maintain adequate moisture, especially during dry winter months.
Temperature:
Prefers Warmth+
Thrives in 18-24°C / 65-75°F with consistent warmth year-round. Keep away from cold drafts, air conditioning vents, and temperatures below 15°C / 59°F which can damage the foliage.
Hardiness zones:
Zones 10-11+
Hardy outdoors only in USDA Zones 10-11 where temperatures remain above 10°C / 50°F year-round. In other zones, grow as a houseplant or move outdoors to a shaded patio during warm summer months.
Fertilizing:
Feed Monthly+
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength once a month during the growing season (spring through early fall). Reduce feeding in winter when growth naturally slows.
Repotting:
Repot Every 2-3 Years+
Repot every 2-3 years or when roots become visible at drainage holes and growth slows. Use a well-draining potting mix with added perlite, and choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one.
Cleaning:
Dust Occasionally+
Gently dust the velvety leaves occasionally with a soft, dry brush or use a can of compressed air. Avoid wiping with water as the textured leaves can trap moisture and develop spots.
Propagation:
Propagates by Cuttings+
Propagate by taking stem cuttings with at least two nodes and placing them in moist perlite or well-draining soil. Keep warm and humid until roots develop in 3-4 weeks.