Begonia coccinea

Begonia coccinea is a small shrub that typically grows 2-5 feet with an upright habit. They are native to Brazil and are a jungle plant that likes bright shade or semi-shade. This species usually looks more open and seeding and develops into a whorl of cane branches over time. In general, it prefers regular water and protects it from cold in the winter. They love soil that is constantly moist and likes good air circulation and benefits with a trim to keep its shape and encourage it to branch out and bush up. Angel wing begonias are a great ornamental plant to have year round. The foliage is olive green and the undersides of the leaves are reddish-brown. There are also many varieties of begonias to choose from, many of which have leaves edged in pink or even white. They produce clusters of bright pink to light pink flowers in the spring and summer, making it an attractive and multi-seasonal plant for your garden.

Grown in USDA hardiness zones 9-11, Angel wing begonias can generally withstand a light frost when mature, but for best results in cold regions, it's advisable to grow them in pots. The begonia enjoys the typical indoor environment of temperatures between 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit and 60% humidity. Place it near east or west-facing windows, as too much direct sunlight can damage the foliage. Water on a weekly basis, making sure the soil is evenly moist, and then allow it to dry out before re-watering. Fertilize every six weeks with a liquid fertilizer. Additionally, you will need to mist the Begonia at least once a week to mimic its natural environment.

Similar plants:

• Begonia ampla (Begonia)
• Begonia bipinnatifida (Fern Leaf Begonia)
• Begonia boliviensis (Bolivian Begonia)
• Begonia brevirimosa (Exotica Begonia )
• Begonia carolineifolia (Palm-leaf Begonia)
• Begonia corallina (Cane Begonia)
• Begonia listada (Striped Begonia)
• Begonia longirostris (Begonia)
• Begonia maculata (Clown Begonia, Polka Dot Begonia, Wright's Spotted Begonia)
• Begonia nelumbiifolia (Lily-pad Begonia)