Cathedral begonia – Indoor Plants

Cathedral begonia is a rare ornamental perennial rhizomatous herbaceous plant. It has cup-like leaves that have thin oval sections that let light through, resembling stained glass windows. The leaves are cup-shaped and wavy-edged, being glossy dark green above and a bronze-burgundy on the underside, and each leaf is held upright on long stems. In between each leaf, the vein is an oval area that is thin and translucent and is light green when viewed in the burgundy leaf underside. Masses of small, deep pink flowers are produced on tall inflorescence in the late spring.

Scientific classification:

Family: Begoniaceae
Genus: Begonia
Species: B. Cathedral
Scientific Name: Begonia ‘Cathedral’
Common Name: Cathedral Begonia, Stained Glass Begonia

How to grow and care for Cathedral begonia

Light

It grows well in partial shade to 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

Cathedral Begonia can be easily propagated by stem cuttings, dividing rhizomes, tubers, corms, or bulbs. 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 has no serious pest or disease problems. It is susceptible to attacks from spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids.