Begonia luxurians aka Palm Leaved Begonia

Begonia luxurians is an evergreen perennial in the begonia family. Its common name is palm-leaf begonia. It comes from Brazil, with records from the southeast. Chicago Botanic Garden places it in Brazilian rain forest. Its palm-like leaves give the plant a bold, upright form. Garden plants reach about 5–8 feet [1.5–2.5 metres] tall. Their spread reaches about 1.6–3.3 feet [0.5–1 metre]. Houseplants may reach around 6 feet [1.8 metres]. Wild plants can reach 13 feet [4 metres].

The stems look like canes and have red-purple tones. They change direction as each new leaf grows. Small bristles cover parts of the plant. The large leaves can span 1 foot [0.3 metres]. Each leaf has nine to fourteen narrow, finger-like divisions. These meet at the base of a long red leaf stalk. Fine hairs cover the pointed leaflets. The plant keeps its leaves year-round, making foliage its main indoor feature.

Small flowers form clusters above the leaves and have a scent. Their colour ranges from pale yellow to white. The RHS gives the flowering season as spring through summer. Chicago's account extends this from late winter into summer. It also notes that houseplants seldom flower. Useful Tropical Plants shows developing fruit but gives no fruit details. Gardeners can use this plant in beds, borders, or containers. Its large leaves also suit planting as a single specimen. Chicago lists it as a plant that attracts birds.

Grow it outdoors in a sheltered place without frost. Give it partial shade or sun filtered through cover. Under glass, use filtered light and peat-free, loam-based compost. The RHS notes that it can take winter sun. Soil should contain plenty of humus and drain well. Keep outdoor plants well watered without leaving the soil waterlogged. Acid or neutral soil suits it, including loam and sand. During active growth, humidity should reach at least 50 percent. Its hardiness ratings are RHS H1B and USDA zones 10–11.

Plants reach full size in about two to five years. They need no routine pruning and grow from seed or stem cuttings. Pests include aphids, mealybugs, mites, thrips, caterpillars, and vine weevils. Grey mould, powdery mildew, and stem or rhizome rot can occur. No food use is recorded by Useful Tropical Plants. That source reports traditional use of boiled leaves for fevers. This does not establish that the treatment works or is safe. The RHS flags harm to people and pets. Wear gloves when handling it, and do not eat it.