Begonia Maculata - Care Advice

This polka dotted beauty contrasts rich dark green leaves with white spots and a burgundy back drop! Native to Asia, Africa and South America, it has a caning growth habit, meaning it will grow taller and may need to be supported with bamboo as it grows. It takes pruning well if it gets too tall and is easy to propagate. They also produce delicate white flowers, usually between April and June.

Light: Begonia do best on an East facing windowsill where they can see the sky and get a good amount of daylight without the risk of strong sunlight burning their leaves. If you have a very bright window, the polka dot plant will do best placed around a metre or so back from the window.

Water: Aim to keep the soil lightly damp and water before it goes completely dry. This will be less frequently in winter. We’d recommend checking the plant weekly, but only water if the pot is starting to feel light. Allow excess water to drain away and avoid letting the plant sit in water in its decorative pot.

Soil: Begonia Maculata do not tolerate water logged soil. They require good oxygen circulation at their roots and added organic matter. Our Chunky Houseplant Mix is ideal as it retains enough moisture but contains added bark and perlite to allow for good drainage.

Temperature: General household temperature is fine, ideally between 18 – 30 degrees. Keep an eye on this plant if temperatures drop below 15 degrees for any long period of time.

Nutrients: Feeding your houseplants isn't a must, but it can encourage flowering. We recommend feeding every other time you water in the spring and summer months.

Keep the leaves clean and remove dead leaves to ensure good air flow around the plant.

A few last notes; Begonia are toxic if ingested by any pets. If your plant becomes leggy, this could be an indication that it requires more light. They take pruning very well and stem cuttings can be propagated in water. If taking a cutting to propagate, use clean scissors to cut below a node (where the leaf meets the stem) and allow this to dry out overnight. Pop it in water, ensuring the node is in the water but any leaves are not and wait for roots to grow!