Begonia floccifera – Flowering plants

Begonia floccifera is an ornamental, evergreen perennial monoecious, rhizomatous plant. The leaves on a tomentose petiole 5-25 cm long, are of very variable shape and dimensions on the same plant, coriaceous, semi-cordate to almost orbicular with irregularly sinuate margins, usually larger than long, of about 8-12 cm of length and 10-16 cm of breadth. The young leaves are initially covered by a thick whitish or yellowish tomentum on both sides, then, above them become glabrous and of intense green color. The solitary inflorescences are 2-3 at the same time, formed by a robust erect scape ending in a compound cyme, of 8-12 cm of diameter, with unisexual flowers on thin pedicels. The fruits are winged capsules, containing several tiny brown seeds.

Scientific classification:

Family: Begoniaceae
Genus: Begonia
Species: B. floccifera
Scientific Name: Begonia floccifera
Common Name: Woolly Begonia

How to grow and care for Begonia floccifera

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