Contents
Description
Begonia Wightii is a species of flowering plant in the family Begoniaceae. It is native to the Western Ghats of Southern India, where it grows in moist and shady areas such as stream banks and rock crevices. The plant has a rhizomatous habit and can grow up to 30 cm in height. Its leaves are asymmetrical and have a green upper surface and a reddish-brown lower surface. The plant blooms in the summer with pink or white flowers that are borne on long stalks.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Cucurbitales |
| Family | Begoniaceae |
| Genus | Begonia |
Appearance
Begonia Wightii has asymmetrical leaves that are oval or heart-shaped and have a green upper surface and a reddish-brown lower surface. The leaves are supported by long petioles and have a slightly serrated margin. The plant blooms in the summer with pink or white flowers that are borne on long stalks. The flowers have five petals and are cup-shaped. The plant grows up to 30 cm in height and has a rhizomatous habit.
Care Guide
Begonia Wightii prefers moist and shady conditions and should be planted in well-draining soil. It requires moderate watering and should be fertilized once a month during the growing season. The plant prefers indirect sunlight and should be protected from direct sunlight. It is hardy in USDA zones 10-12 and should be protected from frost.
Common Pests & Diseases
Begonia Wightii is susceptible to root rot and leaf spot disease. It may also be attacked by aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. Infected plants should be treated with a fungicide or insecticide, respectively.
Habitat
Begonia Wightii is native to the Western Ghats of Southern India, where it grows in moist and shady areas such as stream banks and rock crevices. The plant is also cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and greenhouses.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should Begonia Wightii be watered?
A: Begonia Wightii should be watered moderately and the soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Begonia Wightii?
A: Begonia Wightii is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Q: What is the best fertilizer for Begonia Wightii?
A: Begonia Wightii should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Begonia Wightii be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Begonia Wightii can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with adequate light and humidity.
Related Plants
- Begonia Boliviensis
- Begonia Semperflorens
- Begonia Rex
References
- “Begonia Wightii.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 26 May 2021. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b610.
- “Begonia Wightii.” Plant Care Today. Accessed 26 May 2021. www.plantcaretoday.com/begonia-wightii.
- “Growing Begonia Wightii.” Gardening Know How. Accessed 26 May 2021. www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/begonia/growing-begonia-wightii.htm.
