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.

Hardwood cuttings during late winter that are 50mm (2in) to 150mm (6in) long. Take leaf cuttings taken during summer and placed on a misting bench.

Botanic information
Leaf: The leathery ovate leaves are irregularly lobed and has obvious palmate venation. The upper surface is glossy dark green and is covered in silvery-white blotches. The underside is reddish and the short petiole is thick and fleshy.

Flower: The crateriform flowers are deep pink to bright red with a white ovary and carmine wings. They are arranged in pendulous panicle that is up to 250mm (10in) wide and appear from late spring to summer or sporadically in tropical climates.

Fruit: The seeds is very fine and are contained in a 3-winged capsule. They are viable but the plant is commonly reproduced vegetatively.


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.