Begonia listada aka Striped Begonia

Begonia listada is an evergreen plant in the begonia family, Begoniaceae. Gardeners also know it as striped begonia. Kew lists its native range as Paraguay and its climate as wet tropical. The RHS instead gives Brazil as its range. These sources differ on its origin. Kew describes its form as a shrub or subshrub.

This plant has a compact, bushy shape and small, hairy leaves. Each dark green leaf has a bright green midrib and edge. The underside has a red tint. The RHS describes plants reaching about 1 foot [0.3 metres] tall. Its size table gives an upper height of 1.6 feet [0.5 metres]. The listed spread also reaches 1.6 feet [0.5 metres]. Plants take two to five years to reach full size. White flowers grow in branched clusters called panicles. The RHS gives a flower size of about 2 inches [0.05 metres].

Grow it under glass in light, peat-free potting compost. The mix must drain well, rather than hold standing water. Give it filtered light and shade from hot sun. Long spells of direct sun do not suit it. The RHS gives 19°C as the best growing temperature. Water at a moderate rate while the plant grows. Add a balanced liquid feed at every other watering. It suits moist conditions but cannot cope with waterlogging. Acid or neutral growing media suit it. The RHS lists clay, loam and sand among suitable soil types.

Its RHS hardiness rating is H1B, so it needs warm conditions. In the UK, it can spend summer outdoors. Choose a sheltered spot with partial shade for outdoor use. Its small size suits pots and patio displays in warm weather. It also fits houseplant, greenhouse and conservatory collections. The striped leaves provide interest beyond the white flowers. Take leaf cuttings to raise new plants. In late spring, shorten long canes to two or three buds.

Watch for aphids, mealy bugs, mites and glasshouse thrips. Caterpillars and vine weevil may also attack the plant. Grey mould and powdery mildew are possible disease problems. Stem rot and rhizome rot may occur too. The RHS flags this plant as harmful to people and pets. Do not eat it, and wear gloves when handling it.