The so famous begonia, which is successful on the internet and in several plant stores, is called Begonia maculata. It is a plant that occurs in the Atlantic rainforest, on the coast of Brazil. For a long time, it was considered rare among collectors, but in recent years it has become a fever in the world of plant lovers and has become easily available in different places.

Today, even after the effects of the novelty have passed, the plant still impresses and draws the attention of those who see it. Its white polka dots seem to be hand-painted on its dark green leaves with a very reddish back that is present in any environment. If you weren’t in love yet, get ready because after this article it will be impossible not to fall in love with them!

Most of the ones we find for sale are cultivars different from the “original”. that is, the one we find in its wild form, in nature, native to the state of the states of Rio de Janeiro and Espirito Santo. A cultivar is a plant created from another with specific characteristics and can happen naturally or induced in laboratories. Unfortunately, because it is very irregularly exploited, this beautiful begonia has become an endangered plant.

Begonia Maculata Characteristics and Curiosities

Native to Brazilian forests, Begonia maculata is a plant with an exotic and charming look that has been gaining more and more space in the ornamental market. Its olive green leaves marked by white circular spots, which seem to have been painted by hand, portray a nature work of art.

No wonder each leaf has a surprise color and pattern for us to enjoy. In addition, from time to time, when winter ends, it is common for the Begonia maculata flower to present us with a stem full of white flowers.

It is also worth mentioning that, according to reports from the fashion world, the beauty of Begonia maculata was responsible for inspiring Christian

Louboutin in creating the iconic red sole shoe, as the back of the plant’s leaf also has a rich reddish crimson tone.

Care Tips for Begonia Maculata

Being a luxurious plant, you might think its care is difficult. On the contrary, it is a very easy plant to care for, as you will see below.

Substrate

It is very important that this substrate has good drainage, the begonia does not like a soggy substrate so the better the drainage, that is, the more easily the irrigation water “runs” through the bottom of the pot, the better for the plant, so you will have sure that the plant substrate will not be waterlogged.
watering

Begonias prefer frequent watering, about two to three times a week. But, always remember that watering has no rule, and you need to observe the substrate before watering your plants. The corrector is to never let the substrate dry completely.

Begonias can be a bit dramatic and end up “fainting out” if their roots are lacking water. For them to recover, just water them again.

Another sign that you may be wrong in the frequency of watering is the fall of leaves, which can also indicate a lack of water. On the other hand, yellowed and softened stem, with a rotten appearance, means too much water! Always check that there is no standing water inside the vase, cachepot or dish and remove it.

Light

Although they don’t like full sun, begonias need intense light! Keep them in shady or semi-shade locations, with a few hours of weak morning or late afternoon sun, such as near a window.

Pets and Small Children

It is necessary to be careful with the access of children and/or pets to begonia maculata, as it is a toxic plant if ingested.

Humidity and Temperature

Begonias are native to tropical forests with high humidity in the air, but they do not like water directly on their leaves. Spray water around your maculata begonia, without leaving its leaves with accumulated water. Contact with water for long periods can facilitate the appearance of fungi on the leaves.

A common problem is dry tips on begonia leaves, and this can indicate very dry air with low humidity. As for temperature, begonias appreciate high temperatures, and can go into dormancy periods during the winter, only slowing their growth or even losing their leaves. If that happens, don’t despair! Keep the care and wait for the mildest and warmest days of spring.

Tutor

As they grow, begonias can get quite tall, reaching about 80 to 100 cm in height. Therefore, it may be necessary to insert a wooden or sphagnum moss stake into the pot to help support the plant.

Fertilizing

To have bigger leaves, the ideal is to make the fertilization. The best fertilizer for begonias is one in which the NPK is balanced, ie NPK 10-10-10.

How to Make Begonia Seedlings?

Begonias can give seedlings from the leaves, you can use a leaf with the piece of stem and insert it in a substrate for begonias. In this way the leaf takes root.

On stalk begonias like the maculata, you can make seedlings from cuttings. You must remove the top of one of them and insert it in the substrate or in the water, this will allow it to root and then grow.

Conclusion

Although Begonia maculata is undemanding in care, some information and cultivation tips are always welcome so that your plant can grow strong and healthy. In this direction, the factors mentioned here can make all the difference in the development of your plant.