Begonia Maculata: How to Care for a Polka Dot Begonia

everything you need to know to care for a Begonia Maculata

About

The Begonia Maculata is an eye-catching, cane-stemmed beauty from the tropical jungles of Brazil. With unique silver spotted leaves and deep red undersides, this plant is rumored to have been the inspiration behind Christian Louboutin’s ‘Red Bottoms’! Like most of her tropic sisters, the Begonia Maculata thrives in high humidity. Learn more about Begonia Maculata care below!

CARE
Low-maintenance
Despite her exotic, almost intimidating look, the Begonia Maculata is actually a fairly low-maintenance houseplant. Humidity is key for the plant to thrive, so if you live in a drier area of the world, you may need to take a bit more effort to create the ideal environment. Invest in a humidifier or a spritzer and mist the plant daily in the spring and summer months.

LIGHT
Bright, indirect light
I’ve found this plant does best next to a bright window that gets lots of indirect morning sunshine. Be careful not to let any direct sun (especially in the afternoon) scorch the leaves, which can cause damage and drying out.

WATER
Keep soil damp, but never soaked
This goes hand and hand with the plant’s need for a moist, humid environment. It is important the plant stays hydrated, especially indoors. Avoid overwatering or letting the plant sit in water (like a pot without drainage holes) as this can cause root rot.

TEMPERATURE
Tropical, ideally around 67-70 F (18-22 C)
Coming from the jungle, the Begonia Maculata needs a warm, tropical environment to thrive. Ensure the plant isn’t exposed to cold drafts or drastic climate changes as this will cause shock.

HUMIDITY
High humidity
As mentioned before, humidity is key for this plant’s health and happiness. Given a more humid environment, the plant will grow faster, larger and stronger. To find out how to create the perfect houseplant environment, check this out.

PROPAGATE
Stem cutting, leaf petiole or leaf vein cuttings / spring + summer
While you can propagate the Begonia Maculata through methods of leaf petiole or leaf vein cuttings, the stem cutting method is the easiest. Simply cut a stem with at least two nodes (point on the stem where new leaves or buds grow) and place in water. Refresh water weekly and be patient! Other water propagation tips found here.

FOOD
Once a month
Feed with an indoor plant fertilizer once a month or half of the recommended amount every two weeks. Definitely important to due in the warmer months of spring and summer when the plant is having its growth spurt.

PETS
Mildly toxic when ingested
Over 1,000 of the Begonia species have the toxic principle of soluble calcium oxalates that cause vomiting and mouth irritation if ingested. The most toxic part of the plant are the roots. For more information check out ASPCA.