Propagation
Surface sow fresh seed during spring in a well-drained media and maintain a temperature of 16ş to 18ş C. (61ş to 64ş F). Prick out and pot up when they are large enough to handle.

Divide the clump from late winter to spring. Take cuttings may be taken any time of the year in warm climates.


Botanic information
Leaf: The ovate to oval leaves are green to purple with pink or bronze to yellowish margins. The petiole is short and the base is uneven.

Flower: The female flowers are showy with 3-wings and are arranged in a loose cymose cluster in the upper axils. The male flowers are similar to the female flowers and the flowering period may extend throughout the year in warm climates.

Note
Flowers are unisexual with the male flowers having 2- sepals and petals with numerous central stamens with bright yellow anthers. The female flowers have 2-5 sepals and petals that are of similar size and colour and contain a 3-sided ovary with 3- styles and stigmas. Both male and female flowers are arranged in the same inflorescence.

Fruit:The small three winged papery capsule contains numerous small seeds that self so easily. The plant is commonly propagated vegetatively in order to keep true to type.

Culture
Begoniaspecies require a temperature that is not less than 12.7şC (55şF) and placed in bright indirect light.

The soil should be allowed to dry on the surface before re-watering. Never allow the soil to become wet permanently as this will cause rot and when watering avoid wetting the leaves, the pot may be emersed in water and then allowed to drain. They prefer a humid environment and this may be achieved by misting the surrounding air but again avoid misting the leaves.

During the growing period liquid fertiliser every 10 to 14 days prior to flowering to promote growth. During winter reduce watering and in many cases the plant will shed leaves during this period.

Re-pot the plants during spring when they are pot bound or when the leaves lose colour.