Unusual Houseplants: Polka Dot Begonia

Probably when you think of begonias, you think of those pink-flowering annual that so many people use to line their sidewalks every spring. You might also be familiar with the hybrid that has large blooms and looks really good in hanging baskets. There are however, about 1,000 species of begonias plus around 10,000 more hybrids and cultivars. Of the numerous varieties of begonias from which to choose, the ones with fancy leaves make great -- and unusual -- houseplants. Of the various fancy-leaved begonias, my personal favorite is the polka dot begonia.

The polka dot begonia (Begonia maculata 'Wightii') has large batwing leaves in a dark green with very distinctive white or silvery-white spots that do make the leaves look polka dotted. It can grow to be 3-feet-tall and is actually easy to grow.

Begonias that are grown for their flowers need several hours of direct sun each day; however, begonias prized for their foliage just need bright light. [See: Houseplants: Determining the Light Levels in Your House.] This, of course, makes such varieties as the polka dot begonia ideal houseplants. Like most begonias, the polka dot likes high humidity [see Houseplants: Increasing the Humidity] but does not like too much moisture around its roots and stems. Over water a begonia and/or leave it standing in water, and it will reward your diligence by succumbing to root-rot. [You might be interested in Watering Houseplants: Identifying Problems.] Allow your polka dot begonia to dry out slightly between waterings. You should also lightly fertilize it during its growing period in the spring and summer. The polka dot is a fibrous-rooted begonia, which should be repotted in the spring using a mix of half potting soil and half peat moss. Propagate through stem cuttings.

Other fancy-leaved begonias of note:

Eyelash begonia (B. boweri): Green leaves with black edges and prominent white hairs. Easy to grow.

Beefsteak begonia (B. x erythrophylla): Shiny round green leaves with red underneath. Easy to grow.

Iron-cross begonia (B. masoniana): Hairy light green leaves with a darker green cross in the center of each leaf. Easy to grow.

There are also several varieties of what is known as the Rex Begonia, which have interesting leaf colors and markings. These begonias generally need a bit more humidity and warmth than the other begonias mentioned here; however, they are still fairly easy to grow.

Reference:

DeWolf, Jr. Gordon P., ed. Taylor's Guide to Houseplants. Boston, MA: Houghton Mifflin, 1987.