Add some pattern to your houseplant collection.
There’s nothing we love more than a striking and easy-to-care-forhouseplant.
Enter: the polka dot begonia!
Anastasiia Tretiak
What Is the Polka Dot Begonia?
Here are some differing varieties to check out.
While they’re very similar, they are specific cultivars ofbegonia maculatasthat may not be as widely distributed.
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Their name comes from the shape of their leaves.
Medora
These begonias have small leaves and tend to grow up rather than out.
We love a resilient houseplant!
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Here’s how to best care for them.
Light
Like so many houseplants, the polka dot begonia wants light that’s just right.
65 to 75 degrees with a steady level of humidity is ideal.
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Just do these things and watch your green babies grow.
Brown Leaf Tips & Edges
Crispy leaves got your polka dot begonia down?
This could be because your plant baby is getting too much sun.
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If the full leaf is brown and crispy, it could be that the pot dried out too much.
In this instance, prune the leaf off and be sure to test the soil more frequently."
McEnaney suggests a spray of insecticidal soap to help rid the plant of any pesky pests.
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Fungal Diseases
Surprise!
This species is also not known for having fungal disease issuesanother pro!
“If you see powdery mildew or other fungal diseases appear, neem oil should clear it up.”
Keep the plants out of reach of pets that like to graze to be safe, advises McEnaney.
According to McEnaney, polka dot begonias are indoor plants for much of North America.
If youre in Zones 10 to 12, you’re free to grow them outdoors.
“In nature, you may see them getting closer to four to five feet tall in ideal conditions.