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11 Stunning Begonia Maculata Varieties
Peg Aloi is a gardening expert and former garden designer with 13 years experience working as a professional gardener in the Boston and upstate New York areas. She received her certificate in horticulture from the Berkshire Botanical Garden in Begonia maculata , also known as the polka dot begonia, is a tropical perennial and one of the most striking begonias. The spotted, elongated leaves are dark green, sometimes ranging from olive to forest green.
The plant's spots are a pale grey to silver color, and the undersides of the leaves are a rich burnt orange. Begonia maculata grows best in tropical-like conditions that emulate its native areas: rich, acidic soil, average humidity, and temperatures between 65 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Begonia maculata is toxic to animals. Here are the main care requirements for growing Begonia maculata.
This begonia does best in partial sunlight. Indirect sunlight is best indoors, near a window. You may want to relocate it occasionally as the sunlight moves around according to the seasons, especially in winter as daylight hours grow shorter. The polka dot begonia prefers moist, rich soil.
Since it is most often grown in containers or indoors, a good potting mix should suffice, or a sandy loam soil. Ensure adequate drainage is provided; this can be improved by adding perlite. It's essential not to overwater your begonia. Overwatering can cause root rot, which may eventually kill the plant. Watering no more than twice a week should be sufficient, but this varies depending on humidity levels in your home; you can gauge the right amount by checking the soil before watering.
This plant is rather fussy about its ideal temperature.
Growing Begonia Maculata: Care Guide with Photos
Being a tropical, its perfect growing conditions should emulate its native areas. Temperatures between 65 and 70 are best. Temperatures below 60 degrees Fahrenheit can cause the plant to wilt. Begonia maculata needs a steady level of humidity, but not too much 45 to 50 percent , so using a humidifier is advisable if your home has dry air. Placing it in or near the bathroom or kitchen will help increase the humidity levels.
Placing saucers of water near the plant can help keep humidity consistent. However, too much humidity and the resulting moisture can cause problems such as mildew or fungal rot, so monitor your begonia for any issues. A fertilizer can help liven up the blooms on your polka dot begonia.
Begonia Maculata: 7 Expert Care Tips and Growing Guide
A basic slow-release liquid fertilizer in a formula works fine; use this in spring and apply it once every two to three weeks to increase blooms as needed. Some plants in the Begonia genus may look just like Begonia maculata, such as Begonia coccinea and Begonia corallina. Here are a few types of Begonia maculata to look for, each with varying leaves and spots:.
Your polka dot begonia also needs regular pruning to keep it from getting too overgrown or leggy. The best time to do this is late autumn or after a period of bloom when the flowers start to drop off and fade.
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Use a sharp, small pair of snips to make a clean cut. You can propagate this plant with small cuttings. The best timing for propagation is when there are the fewest flowers on the plant, such as late winter. As your begonia grows, you will want to transfer it into a larger container and refresh the soil occasionally. Do this in early spring before the active growing season.