Begonia maculata — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Begonia maculata |
|---|---|
| Seed germination (days) | 14–21 |
| Soil temperature for germination (°C) | 18.3–23.9 |
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 60–90 |
| Measured from | Transplant |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 30.5–45.7 |
| Mature height (cm) | 61–152.4 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 30.5–45.7 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 10–12 |
| Light | Shade |
| Water | Moderate |
| Sowing method | Cutting |
Growing directions
Root stem cuttings or plant container specimens in well-drained, humus-rich potting mix in partial to full shade; polka dot begonia is a Brazilian cane-type (angel wing) begonia that has become one of the most vigorously popular houseplants of recent years, with extraordinary social media visibility driven by its remarkable leaf pattern — the large, asymmetric, wing-shaped, olive-green to dark-green leaves are densely covered on the upper surface with a precise, even, all-over pattern of small, perfectly round, silver-white spots, while the undersides are uniformly deep maroon-red, creating a bicolor leaf effect that is striking from both sides. The plant grows with an upright, bamboo-like, cane-forming habit and can reach 4–5 feet indoors or in sheltered outdoor positions. Clusters of small, delicate, pale-pink to white, pendant flowers appear at intervals throughout the year, adding a floral bonus to the outstanding foliage display. It roots easily from stem cuttings in water. 'Wightii' is the most commonly available cultivar, with the densest and most even silver-spot pattern. An excellent outdoor specimen in sheltered shade gardens in zone 10–12.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
OpenPlantDB · begonia-maculata
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0