Begonia Boliviensis Mistral Pink

Description

Begonia Boliviensis Mistral Pink is a stunning perennial plant that produces masses of pink flowers. It is native to Bolivia and is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and homes. The plant produces clusters of pendulous flowers that bloom from spring to fall. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and have a slightly asymmetrical shape. The plant grows up to 12 inches tall and 12 inches wide.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Begonia Boliviensis Mistral Pink has a unique appearance that makes it stand out in any garden. The plant produces masses of pink flowers that hang from long stems. The petals are shaped like hearts and have a slightly wavy edge. The flowers are surrounded by dark green, glossy leaves that have a slightly asymmetrical shape. The leaves have a pointed tip and are slightly serrated along the edges. The plant grows up to 12 inches tall and 12 inches wide, making it a great choice for containers or hanging baskets.

Care Guide

Begonia Boliviensis Mistral Pink is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy and thriving:

Water: Begonia Boliviensis Mistral Pink prefers moist soil, so it’s important to water it regularly. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Fertilization: Fertilize your plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.

Soil: Begonia Boliviensis Mistral Pink prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a potting mix that is formulated for indoor plants.

Sunlight: Begonia Boliviensis Mistral Pink prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.

Hardiness Zones: Begonia Boliviensis Mistral Pink is hardy in zones 9-11. In colder zones, it can be grown as an annual or kept indoors during the winter.

Common Pests & Diseases

Begonia Boliviensis Mistral Pink is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases. Here are some to watch out for:

Pests: Spider mites and mealybugs can infest begonias. Treat infestations with a neem oil spray or insecticidal soap.

Diseases: Begonias can be susceptible to bacterial leaf spot and powdery mildew. Treat with a copper fungicide or neem oil spray.

Habitat

Begonia Boliviensis Mistral Pink is native to Bolivia, where it grows in the Andes Mountains. It prefers cool temperatures and moist soil. In gardens and homes, it can be grown in containers or hanging baskets.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I water my Begonia Boliviensis Mistral Pink?

A: Water your plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Begonias prefer moist soil but can suffer from root rot if they are overwatered.

Q: Can I grow Begonia Boliviensis Mistral Pink indoors?

A: Yes, Begonia Boliviensis Mistral Pink can be grown indoors in a bright, sunny spot. It prefers cool temperatures and moist soil.

Q: How do I propagate Begonia Boliviensis Mistral Pink?

A: Begonia Boliviensis Mistral Pink can be propagated from stem cuttings. Take a cutting that is 4-6 inches long and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and the cutting in bright, indirect sunlight until it roots.

Q: Can I grow Begonia Boliviensis Mistral Pink in full sun?

A: Begonia Boliviensis Mistral Pink prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It can be grown in full sun, but the leaves may scorch.

Related Plants

• Begonia Boliviensis
• Begonia semperflorens
• Begonia grandis
• Begonia maculata

References

• “Begonia boliviensis ‘Mistral Pink’.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277778&isprofile=0&basic=Begonia.
• “Begonia boliviensis ‘Mistral Pink’.” Plant Care Today, plantcaretoday.com/begonia-boliviensis-mistral-pink.
• “Growing Begonias.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/begonia/growing-begonias.htm.