Begonia maculata aka Polka Dot Begonia
Taxonomy
Begonia maculata, also known as the polka dot begonia, is a stunning species of begonia native to southeast Brazil. It has green oblong leaves with silver dots, red-purple undersides and white flowers with yellow centers in clusters on a single stem. Louboutin is rumored to have based his trademark shoe off the always eye-catching undersides of the Begonia maculata. The best conditions to propagate this plant is bright, indirect light and water poured just below the surface of the soil, filtered or rainwater, when it feels dry to the touch. Although originating in tropical regions of the world, Begonia maculata can now be found in homes in cold climates as well. However, one must take care to keep them away from children and pets, as it contains oxalic acid. Altogether, Begonia maculata is one of the most exciting and gorgeous of the 2,000 plus species of begonia.
Common names
Polka Dot Begonia, Angel Wings, Spotted BegoniaHow to care for Polka Dot Begonia
Difficulty
With its straightforward care requirements, Polka Dot Begonia is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.
Water
Polka Dot Begonia should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Polka Dot Begonia 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 Polka Dot Begonia prefers bright indirect 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 is common for Polka Dot Begonia plants to go dormant and their growth rate may slow down. Therefore, the amount of waterings should be spaced out more.
Toxicity
Polka Dot Begonia is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.
Humidity
The Polka Dot Begonia does not necessitate supplementary humidity. Plants primarily absorb water through their roots, rather than their leaves. Hence, the most effective way to supply humidity to your plants is by watering the soil.
Fertilizer
The Polka Dot Begonia should be transferred to a new pot once it has increased in size two-fold, or on an annual basis, whichever occurs earlier. Replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the necessary nutrients, is sufficient enough to support the growth of the plant, thus avoiding the need to use fertilizer. It's important to note that plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.
Growth-pattern
New growth will sprout from the top of the plant as it grows upwards.
Region of origin
Polka Dot Begonia’s native range is Tropics and Subtropics worldwide.
Flower
If you provide your Polka Dot Begonia with adequate amounts of sunlight and water, it will bloom.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Begonia Genus
Begonia solimutata Sun Changing Begonia
Begonia reniformis Grapeleaf Begonia
Begonia grandis Hardy Begonia
Begonia carolineifolia Palmate Begonia
Begonia picta Painted Leaf Begonia
Begonia heracleifolia Starleaf Begonia
Begonia hiemalis Eliator Begonia
Begonia imperialis Imperial Begonia
Begonia longifolia Begonia Longifolia
