Begonia boliviensis aka Begonia Bonfire

Taxonomy

Begonia boliviensis is a tropical tuberous perennial plant in the begonia family, Begoniaceae, native to the mountainous regions of Peru, Argentina, and Bolivia in South America. It was discovered in the Bolivian Andes by Hugh Weddell but introduced to Europe by Richard Pearce in 1864. The plant is of historical interest as it was used by John Seden to create the first hybrid tuberous begonia in England, B. × sedenii. Begonia boliviensis is typically found in rock crevices and slopes near streams, where plant competition is low. The bushy plants have linear wing-shaped green leaves covered in fuzzy hairs with red-tinted edges that are attractive even when not flowering. The flowers are outrageously bold and bright orange with four long distinctly curved petals. These require no deadheading and will bloom nonstop as long as growing conditions are favorable. The plant was exhibited for the first time at the International Horticultural Show in Paris in May 1867, where it attracted much attention from botanists and horticulturists "more than any other plant then brought to that magnificent exhibition." Begonia boliviensis is the parent species of many tuberous begonia cultivars with drooping flowers. There are over 2,000 species of Begonia, and horticulturalists have created even more varieties by cultivating all sorts of shapes and colors. They're native to tropical regions around the world but are now found in homes in cold climates as well. Their taxonomy is far more complex than other plants, with species belonging to different cultivar groups. However, they contain oxalic acid, so it's essential to keep them out of reach in homes with pets or children.

Common names

Begonia Bonfire, Bolivian Begonia, Boligonia

How to care for Begonia Bonfire

Difficulty

Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Begonia Bonfire due to its easy-going nature.

Water

Begonia Bonfire should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Begonia Bonfire loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Begonia Bonfire prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Dormancy

During the wintertime, it's common for Begonia Bonfire to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Humidity

No additional humidity is required for the Begonia Bonfire. Plants take in most of their water through their roots, not their leaves, therefore, watering the soil is the most effective way to supply humidity to your plants.

Fertilizer

Repotting the Begonia Bonfire is necessary either when it has doubled in size or once every year, whichever happens first. With fresh potting soil replenished annually, the plant will receive all the necessary nutrients, rendering the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that the source of a plant's energy is the sun, not fertilizer.

Region of origin

Begonia Bonfire’s native range is Tropics and Subtropics worldwide.


More info:
Wikipedia