Begonia masoniana
TAXONOMY
FamilyBegoniaceae
GenusBegonia
Zone10
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Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Begonia masoniana, commonly known as Iron Cross Begonia, is a perennial or rhizomatous geophyte native to the tropical regions of China and Vietnam. It is well-known for its striking foliage, which features a unique cross-like pattern. This plant thrives in wet tropical climates and is a popular choice for indoor gardening due to its ornamental leaves.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Iron cross begonia
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterWet
SoilLoamy
LightIndirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature22° C
Humidity70%
pH6
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
To care for Begonia masoniana, place it in a location with bright, indirect light. Maintain moderate temperatures and high humidity levels. Water the plant regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.Soil
Begonia masoniana prefers well-draining loam soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged. A mix of peat, perlite, and potting soil works well. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water accumulation.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Reduce feeding during the winter months when the plant's growth slows down.Repotting
Repot Begonia masoniana every 1-2 years or when it outgrows its current pot. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, shake off excess soil, and place it in the new pot with fresh soil mix.Propagation
Propagate Begonia masoniana through leaf cuttings or division. For leaf cuttings, cut a healthy leaf with a bit of stem and place it in moist soil. For division, separate the rhizomes and plant them individually in new pots.Pruning
Prune Begonia masoniana to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged leaves. Pruning can be done throughout the year as needed. Use clean, sharp scissors to make clean cuts.Toxicity
Begonia masoniana is toxic to pets and humans if ingested. The plant contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and swelling in the mouth and throat. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.Additional
To enhance humidity around the plant, consider using a humidity tray or a room humidifier. Regularly misting the leaves can also help maintain the required humidity levels. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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