Begonia maculata

Polka Dot Begonia, Spotted Begonia, Trout Begonia

Moderate careTerrestrialModerately toxic60–150 cm

A cane begonia from the Brazilian Atlantic rainforest, recognised by its olive-green, angel-wing leaves dotted with silver spots and backed in deep red-purple. The spots are caused by air trapped in the leaf epidermis, a natural form of 'blister variegation'. It does best in high humidity and indirect light. In a closed terrarium, regular pruning helps manage its vigorous upright growth.

Build a terrarium with this plant
Polka Dot Begonia image

Care

Prefers high humidity, bright indirect light, with 18–24 °C, and reaches 150 cm at maturity.

Light

Bright indirect(preferred)Indirect light

Humidity

High (60–80%)(preferred)Very high (80%+)

Temperature

10°C25°C40°C
18°C – 24°C

Soil

Well draining(preferred)Peat moss

Moisture

Moist(preferred)

Soil pH

5.5 – 6.5

Propagation

Cut stems about 2–3 cm above a leaf node, remove lower leaves, and root in water or moist soil. Roots develop in 2–4 weeks. Soil propagation tends to produce sturdier roots. Spring and summer give the best results during active growth.

Native range

Native to Brazil.

Appearance

Growth habit

UprightBushy

Leaf shape

Lance

Leaf texture

Glossy

Frequently asked

Can Polka Dot Begonia grow in a closed terrarium?

Yes. Polka Dot Begonia prefers high (60–80%) humidity, which is what a closed terrarium provides, and tolerates bright-indirect-light-loving conditions.

Does Polka Dot Begonia need drainage?

Polka Dot Begonia prefers a moist substrate. Drainage is helpful but not critical; consistent moisture matters more.

What humidity does Polka Dot Begonia need?

Polka Dot Begonia does best in high (60–80%) humidity.

Is Polka Dot Begonia pet-safe?

Polka Dot Begonia is moderately toxic if ingested — keep out of reach of pets and children.

How tall does Polka Dot Begonia grow?

Polka Dot Begonia typically reaches 60–150 cm at maturity.

How do you propagate Polka Dot Begonia?

Polka Dot Begonia can be propagated by stem cuttings.

References

  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3
  4. 4
  5. 5
  6. 6