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Description
Begonia Boliviensis is a species of Begonia native to Bolivia and Peru. It is a perennial flowering plant that grows up to 60 cm tall and 45 cm wide. The plant has a branching habit, producing nodding, pendulous flowers. It is commonly grown as a garden plant and is also used as a houseplant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cucurbitales |
| Family | Begoniaceae |
| Genus | Begonia |
Appearance
The leaves of Begonia Boliviensis are green and glossy, with a bronze tint on the underside. The flowers are produced in clusters of 3-5 and are usually red or orange in color, although some cultivars have pink or white flowers. The flowers have a tubular shape and are about 2-3 cm long. The plant has a trailing habit, making it ideal for hanging baskets or window boxes.
Care Guide
Begonia Boliviensis prefers moist, well-drained soil and requires regular watering. It also requires fertilization every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight, but can tolerate some direct sunlight. It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11, but can be grown as an annual in colder climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Begonia Boliviensis is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including whiteflies, spider mites, and powdery mildew. To control these pests, it is recommended to use insecticidal soap or neem oil. To prevent powdery mildew, ensure adequate air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Begonia Boliviensis is native to Bolivia and Peru, where it grows in tropical and subtropical forests. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Begonia Boliviensis?
A: Begonia Boliviensis prefers moist soil, so it should be watered regularly. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.
Q: Can Begonia Boliviensis tolerate direct sunlight?
A: While Begonia Boliviensis prefers bright, indirect sunlight, it can tolerate some direct sunlight. However, too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to burn.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Begonia Boliviensis?
A: Begonia Boliviensis is hardy in USDA zones 9-11, but can be grown as an annual in colder climates.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Begonia Boliviensis?
A: Begonia Boliviensis should be fertilized every 4-6 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Begonia Semperflorens
- Begonia Grandis
- Begonia Evansiana
- Begonia Tuberhybrida
References
- “Begonia boliviensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286188.
- “Begonia boliviensis.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/21799/Begonia-boliviensis/Details.
- “Begonia boliviensis.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/grow-begonia-boliviensis-indoors-1902743.
