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Description
Begonia Coccinea, also known as the Scarlet Begonia, is a beautiful flowering plant that is native to Brazil. It is a member of the Begoniaceae family and is prized for its vibrant red and pink flowers that bloom throughout the year. The plant has a bushy growth habit and can reach up to 1 meter in height. The leaves are deep green with a glossy texture and are often marked with silver spots.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cucurbitales |
| Family | Begoniaceae |
| Genus | Begonia |
Appearance
Begonia Coccinea is a stunning plant that is known for its beautiful flowers. The flowers are usually red or pink and have a waxy texture. They are borne on long stalks and can be up to 7cm in diameter. The leaves are deep green with a glossy texture and are often marked with silver spots. The plant has a bushy growth habit and can reach up to 1 meter in height.
Care Guide
Begonia Coccinea is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require some specific conditions to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for your Scarlet Begonia:
Water
Begonia Coccinea prefers moist soil, but it is important not to overwater it. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, and make sure to use a well-draining soil mix.
Fertilization
Feed your Scarlet Begonia with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a fertilizer that is high in nitrogen to promote healthy leaf growth.
Soil
Begonia Coccinea prefers a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. Use a potting mix that contains peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.
Sunlight
Begonia Coccinea prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves.
Hardiness Zones
Begonia Coccinea is hardy in USDA zones 10-12. If you live in a colder climate, you can grow it as a houseplant.
Common Pests & Diseases
Begonia Coccinea is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it can be susceptible to certain issues. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:
Pests
– Aphids- Spider mites- MealybugsTo control these pests, you can use a mild insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Diseases
– Powdery mildew- Botrytis blightTo prevent these diseases, make sure to provide adequate air circulation around the plant and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Begonia Coccinea is native to Brazil, where it grows in the understory of rainforests. It prefers a warm, humid environment and well-draining soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Begonia Coccinea be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Begonia Coccinea can be grown indoors as a houseplant. Keep it in a bright, indirect light and water it when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Scarlet Begonia?
A: Feed your Begonia Coccinea with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
Q: What is the best way to propagate Begonia Coccinea?
A: You can propagate Begonia Coccinea by taking stem cuttings or leaf cuttings. Make sure to use a rooting hormone to encourage root growth.
Q: Can Begonia Coccinea be grown in full sun?
A: No, Begonia Coccinea prefers bright, indirect light and can be scorch by direct sunlight.
Related Plants
– Begonia Boliviensis- Begonia Dragon Wing- Begonia Semperflorens
References
– “Begonia Coccinea.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287303&isprofile=1&basic=Begonia%20coccinea.- “Scarlet Begonia.” Plant Care Today, 8 Mar. 2021, plantcaretoday.com/begonia-coccinea-plant-care.- “Begonia Coccinea.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/begonia-coccinea/scarlet-begonia-care.htm.
