Begonia amphioxus - Information and Plant Care
Begonia amphioxus Sands is a captivating evergreen perennial from the Begoniaceae family. With pointed green leaves adorned with bright red margins and scattered red spots, this striking plant reaches up to 30 cm in height, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate bold, exotic foliage.
Features of Begonia amphioxus
- Distinctive Foliage: Lance-shaped, green leaves with red spots and edges.
- Compact Growth: Grows up to 30 cm, perfect for indoor settings.
- Exotic Appeal: The vibrant color contrast creates a striking visual impact.
- Evergreen Nature: Maintains year-round beauty.
Caring for Your Begonia amphioxus
- Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorch.
- Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water when the top layer dries out.
- Soil: Use well-draining, aerated soil to prevent root rot.
- Humidity: Thrives in high humidity (70%+). A humidifier or grouping with other plants can help.
- Temperature: Maintain between 18-25°C, avoiding drafts and sudden changes.
- Fertilization: Feed monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
Common Issues with Begonia amphioxus and Their Solutions
- Root Rot: Caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Ensure proper aeration and use a pot with drainage holes.
- Yellowing Leaves: May indicate underwatering or too much direct sunlight. Adjust placement and watering.
- Pests: Watch for spider mites, fungus gnats, and mealybugs. Treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
- Leaf Browning: Often due to low humidity or sun exposure. Increase humidity and move to filtered light.
Additional Growing Tips for Begonia amphioxus
- Placement: Keep in a bright, humid area away from direct sun. Ideal for shelves, window sills, or plant stands.
- Water Quality: Use filtered or rainwater to avoid tap water chemicals.
- Pruning: Trim dead or yellowing leaves to encourage new growth.
Understanding the natural habitat of your plant helps in providing optimal care. Mimicking these conditions will ensure healthy growth.
Etymology
The genus name Begonia honors Michel Bégon (1638-1710), a French administrator and botanist, as named by Charles Plumier after discovering the plant on the island of Santo Domingo.
Begonia amphioxus
Begonia amphioxus comes in following sizes:
Baby Plant – is approximately 12 cm tall and comes in a ⌀ 6 cm pot.
S – is approximately 15 cm tall and comes in a ⌀ 9 cm pot.
