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.

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Polka Dot Begonia image

Care

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

Appearance

Growth habit

UprightBushy

Leaf shape

Lance

Leaf texture

Glossy

Distribution

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.