Begonia concanensis – Flowering plants

Begonia concanensis is an attractive annual herb with tuberous roots and grows up to 10-20 inches tall. It has ovate leaves that have heart-shaped bases and serrated margin, and are covered with short, thick hairs. The leaves are pink and hairless on the underside. Lower leaves can have stalks up to 15 cm long, while the upper ones have up to 6 cm long, pink, watery stalks. It produces pink flowers carried on stalks. Begonia concanensis is a monoecious (uni-sexual) flower, male flowers have 2 pinkish-white sepals and 2 rosy pink petals and female flowers have 5 rosy pink tepals.

Scientific classification

Family: Begoniaceae
Genus: Begonia
Species: B. concanensis
Scientific Name: Begonia concanensis
Common Name: Konkan Begonia

How to grow and care for Begonia concanensis

Light

It grows well in bright indirect sunlight originating from a south, east, or west window. It also thrives under fluorescent lights. Avoid direct sun which can scorch the leaves.

Soil

It requires a well-drained, peat moss-based soil, such as African violet potting mix.

Water

Water your plant regularly during the growing season and always keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. You can allow the top 1 inch of soil to dry out between each watering. During the winter months, reduce watering. Overwatering will cause leaves to turn yellow.

Temperature

It prefers an average room temperature of 65 – 75 degrees Fahrenheit / 18 – 24 degrees Celsius. Begonia is not cold-tolerant and can be harmed by temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit / 13 degrees Celsius.

Fertilizer

Feed every two weeks spring through fall with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half. Do not feed your plant during the dormant period.

Propagation

It can be easily propagated by stem cuttings. Take stem cuttings in spring and root in fresh potting mix. Keep the soil lightly moist. Cover the whole container and plant with a plastic bag or cloche to hold in humidity. Begonia seeds are slow to germinate. You can sow seeds in the spring, but it can take several months to grow.

Pests and Diseases

Begonia concanensis has no serious pest or disease problems. It is susceptible to attacks from spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids.