Begonia maculata

Begonia maculata

Also known as: polka dot begonia, spotted begonia, trout begonia, Begonia argyrostigma

Begonia maculata
Photo: Antekbojar, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

How do you care for a Begonia maculata?

Light: Partial shade or filtered light. The RHS notes it will not tolerate continuous direct sunlight. Water: Water moderately when in growth. Use a moist but well-drained, humus-rich mix; it will not tolerate waterlogging. It is toxic to cats and dogs, so keep it out of their reach.

About Begonia maculata

Begonia maculata, the polka dot begonia, is a cane-type begonia from Brazil with upright, bamboo-like stems and long, wavy leaves that are green with silvery-white spots above and red below. The RHS gives a height of 0.5–1 m (1.6–3.3 ft), and NC State Extension lists it at 60–90 cm (2–3 ft) with white to pink flowers. Both recommend partial shade or filtered light out of hot sun and a moist but well-drained mix; the RHS warns it will not tolerate waterlogging. It is toxic to cats and dogs.

Begonia maculata quick facts

Botanical name
Begonia maculata
Family
Begoniaceae (begonia family)
Native to
Brazil
Light
Partial shade or filtered light. The RHS notes it will not tolerate continuous direct sunlight.
Water
Water moderately when in growth. Use a moist but well-drained, humus-rich mix; it will not tolerate waterlogging.
Temperature and humidity
The RHS gives an optimum of about 19 °C (66 °F). NC State notes begonias do not tolerate temperatures below 13 °C (55 °F) and that cane types do best in high humidity.
Size
0.5–1 m (1.6–3.3 ft) tall and up to 50 cm (20 in) wide.
Pruning
Pinch the tips to promote new growth. Cut overlong canes back to 2 or 3 buds in late spring.
Propagation
Stem cuttings.
Cats and dogs
Toxic. Toxic to dogs and cats. The ASPCA lists soluble calcium oxalates for Begonia species, causing vomiting and salivation; the underground parts are the most toxic. Source: ASPCA

Sources: NC State Extension: Begonia – Cane Types; RHS: Begonia maculata; NC State Extension: Begonia; ASPCA: Begonia

Begonia Maculata care at a glance

Light
Bright indirect. Wants bright, indirect light — sensitive to both extremes. Too much direct sun causes burns, too little causes stretching. Grow lights: Thrives under artificial grow lights (LED or fluorescent, 10-12 hours/day). A great option if your space lacks natural light.
Watering
Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry. Adjust with the seasons — less in winter, more in summer.
Humidity
Loves higher humidity (60%+). If your air is dry, group it with other plants, use a pebble tray, or run a humidifier nearby.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60-80°F). Keep away from radiators and intense afternoon sun windows.
Soil
Needs well-draining soil — add perlite or orchid bark to a standard potting mix. Good drainage is critical to prevent root rot.
Pets
Toxic to dogs and cats. The ASPCA lists soluble calcium oxalates for Begonia species, causing vomiting and salivation; the underground parts are the most toxic.
Difficulty
Intermediate

Common Begonia maculata problems, answered

Questions about Begonia maculata

Is Begonia maculata toxic to cats and dogs?

Toxic to dogs and cats. The ASPCA lists soluble calcium oxalates for Begonia species, causing vomiting and salivation; the underground parts are the most toxic.

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