Spotted Begonia

That the plant genus Begonia takes no common name speaks to the Begonia’s prolific status among plants. Native to tropical and subtropical environments around the world, species of Begonia are usually flowering herbs, and they tend to be perennials.

Someone might suspect a flowering plant of belonging to the Begonia genus if its leaves are large and variegated, and if each leaf is asymmetrical (shaped differently on either side). These suspicions can be confirmed if there is evidence of both male and female flowers growing on a single plant (Known as being monoecious).

Spotted Begonia

Botanical Name: Begonia Maculata ‘Wightii’

Begonia Maculata ‘Wightii’, known more commonly as Spotted Begonia, is a tropical plant with large, multicoloured leaves. Spotted Begonias lend well to being grown in hanging baskets. The leaf on the Spotted Begonia is peltate, meaning that the stem ends at the base of each leaf. This base soon tapers into the shape of an arrowhead. Because the Spotted Begonia contains red pigment, leaves may appear green, red, or yellow. The set of neat white polka dots patterning each leaf earns the plant its descriptor of ‘spotted’.

The Spotted Begonia should be watered lightly when its topsoil is dry, except for in the winter months, when watering should be much less regular. A high level of light is ideal for the Spotted Begonia as long as it is not harsh, direct sunlight. A well-draining potting soil will keep the Spotted Begonia’s environment from becoming soggy, and owners should also consider keeping it in a pebble tray to maintain humidity. The Spotted Begonia is best kept indoors with the temperature maintained at 15 degrees Celsius or above.