Begonia bowerae 'Tiger' – Foliage Drama with a Striped Twist


Begonia bowerae 'Tiger' turns heads with its striking contrast of bold markings and compact form. The deep olive-green leaves are accented by dramatic black-brown markings radiating from the center, paired with bright lime-green edges that shimmer in the light. Their surface is softly textured with tiny hairs, giving each leaf a velvety appearance and a wild, untamed vibe. Red stems and small hairs along the petioles only add to the visual impact. Despite its exotic look, this cultivar stays relatively compact, making it an eye-catching option for plant lovers who want something vibrant, low-growing, and full of personality.


Key Characteristics of Begonia bowerae 'Tiger'



  
Leaf pattern: Olive-green leaves with dark tiger-like stripes and bright green margins
  
Texture: Soft, hairy foliage with a velvety finish
  
Growth: Low-growing, bushy, and compact
  
Seasonal interest: Year-round foliage color with occasional small pink blooms


Essential Info About Begonia bowerae 'Tiger'


This cultivar descends from Begonia bowerae, a species native to the humid forests of southern Mexico. In its natural habitat, it thrives in shaded understories where humidity stays consistently high and temperatures remain between 18–28 °C. Rainfall in these zones typically ranges from 1200–2000 mm annually. Indoors, 'Tiger' typically grows to around 25–30 cm in height and spreads to 40 cm, forming a dense mound of foliage. Its creeping habit makes it great for pots or terrariums. Like many Begonias, it's considered toxic if ingested and should be kept out of reach from pets and children.


Begonia 'Tiger' – Care Instructions Made Simple



  
Placement: Prefers bright, filtered light—avoid direct sun to prevent leaf burn
  
Light: Needs consistent light to keep its coloration strong
  
Water: Keep soil lightly moist, but never soggy—let top 2 cm dry before watering
  
Humidity: Likes 60–70%; avoid dry air to prevent crispy leaf edges
  
Temperature: Ideal between 18–26 °C; avoid cold drafts
  
Soil: Loose, airy potting mix with added perlite or coco coir
  
Repotting: Every 1–2 years, or when roots fill the container
  
Fertilizing: Feed monthly with a diluted liquid fertilizer
  
Propagation: Easy via leaf or stem cuttings—root quickly in humid conditions
  
Hydroponics: Not ideal; better suited to soil-based setups
  
Pruning: Trim dead or leggy growth to maintain compact shape


Common Problems & Easy Fixes for Begonia 'Tiger'



  
Powdery mildew: Improve air circulation and avoid wetting the leaves
  
Brown tips: Usually due to low humidity—raise moisture levels
  
Root rot: Let soil dry slightly between waterings and ensure proper drainage
  
Fungus gnats: Let the top layer dry and consider using sticky traps
  
Mealybugs or thrips: Remove with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol or use neem oil


Additional Tips for Begonia bowerae 'Tiger'


Use a shallow, wide pot to accommodate its creeping habit. Terrariums can help maintain humidity if your space is dry. Avoid overhead watering to protect the fuzzy leaves from rot. Observing how its wild relatives grow across the forest floor in shaded, humid environments will give you a blueprint for success. Matching those conditions at home—low light, high humidity, and well-aerated substrate—will make this Begonia thrive instead of just survive.


Etymology of Begonia bowerae 'Tiger'


The genus name Begonia honors Michel Bégon, a 17th-century French plant collector and administrator. The species bowerae is named after Mrs. Bower, a gardener who first cultivated the plant. The cultivar name 'Tiger' reflects the plant’s dramatic, striped foliage pattern.


FAQs About Begonia bowerae 'Tiger'



  
Does Begonia 'Tiger' bloom indoors?

  Yes, it may produce tiny pale-pink flowers, though the foliage remains the main attraction.
  
Can it grow in a terrarium?

  Absolutely. Its love for humidity and compact growth makes it ideal for enclosed setups.
  
Why are my Begonia 'Tiger' leaves curling?

  This can signal dry air, underwatering, or a pest issue—check conditions and adjust care.


Buy Begonia bowerae 'Tiger' and Grow Something Wild


Add bold, textured contrast to your plant collection with this compact stunner. Order today and let Begonia 'Tiger' bring its lush forest vibes into your space.