Begonia cathayana

A stunning and unique addition to any plant collection, Begonia cathayana is a native species from the mountainous regions of China, specifically Guangxi and Yunnan. With its attractive foliage and eye-catching blooms, it’s perfect for plant enthusiasts looking for something special.

Features:

• Height: Grows up to 60 cm tall.
• Leaves: Ovate to broadly ovate with a dark green upper surface, featuring a striking reddish-purple V-shaped band. The underside of the leaves is a pale green to reddish-purple, adding an elegant touch to your indoor space.
• Flowers: This species blooms unisexual flowers – male flowers feature four pink or orange tepals, while female flowers possess five tepals and produce obovoid-oblong capsules with three wings.

Ideal Care Tips for Begonia Cathayana:

• Light: Thrives in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight as it may scorch the leaves.
• Temperature: Prefers a mild climate between 18°C to 24°C (65°F to 75°F). Keep away from drafts or sudden temperature changes.
• Humidity: Requires high humidity levels of at least 50% to flourish. Consider placing it near a humidifier or on a pebble tray with water to maintain moisture.
• Soil: Grow in a well-draining, organic-rich mix with a slightly acidic pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. Make sure the pot has good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
• Watering: Water regularly, but allow the top layer of soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid water accumulation at the base of the plant.