Begonia ‘Zumba’

Cultivated origin of Begonia ‘Zumba’

Antoon Hoefnagels of Hoefnagels B. V. is recorded as the breeder of ‘Zumba’. Dutch plant breeders’ rights were granted in 2019.

It belongs to the Rex Cultorum Group, the long-established horticultural group of rex-type Begonia hybrids.

Growing Begonia ‘Zumba’ at home

Repot once roots or the rhizome fill the container, keeping the rhizome level with the surface. Healthy leaf cuttings and short rhizome cuttings can both be rooted.

Give bright indirect or filtered light and shield the foliage from harsh direct sun. Aim for 18–24 °C, keeping the plant clear of prolonged chilling below 13 °C.

Humid air and gentle circulation suit the plant. Maintain the surrounding air at roughly 60–80% humidity. Use a shallow container with airy mix that holds some moisture around the roots and drains freely.

Water when the surface is almost dry and allow the pot to drain fully. Give a weak balanced fertiliser every few weeks during new leaf production.

When Begonia ‘Zumba’ needs attention

• Jagged leaf points turn crisp and brown: The narrow tips may dry first when moisture around the roots becomes uneven or heated air reaches the plant. If the mix is dry, water it thoroughly and let the excess drain. A position away from heat sources helps prevent repeated drying at the pointed leaf edges.
• White powder appears on the curled leaves: Powdery mildew can establish where dense curled leaves have weak airflow. Remove leaves with the heaviest coating and keep ‘Zumba’ separate while the foliage stays dry and circulation around the leaves improves. Persistent mildew can be treated with a fungicide labelled for powdery mildew on indoor ornamental plants, following the label.
• Fine pale stippling dulls the dark areas: Spider mites may be feeding on the undersides. Inspect closely for mites or webbing and keep the plant separate if they are present. A product labelled for mites on indoor ornamental plants can then be used according to its label.

Begonia ‘Zumba’ is toxic to people and pets

• Keep this plant away from children, cats and dogs.
• The roots and rhizomes contain the highest levels of soluble oxalates, and the sap can irritate skin.
• Chewing may cause mouth irritation, drooling, vomiting or stomach pain. Contact a veterinarian or medical professional if symptoms develop.

Begonia: name and meaning

Begonia honours Michel Bégon.

Carl Linnaeus established the genus Begonia in 1753 in Species Plantarum, page 1056.