Description

Begonia Minor, also known as Dwarf Begonia, is a small herbaceous plant that belongs to the Begoniaceae family. It is native to Brazil and can be found in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. It is a popular houseplant due to its beautiful foliage and ease of care.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Begonia Minor has small, round leaves that are bright green in color. The leaves are asymmetrical in shape and have a slightly wavy texture. The plant can grow up to 8 inches in height and 12 inches in width. It produces small pink or white flowers in the spring and summer months.

Care Guide

Begonia Minor is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips:

• Water: The plant prefers to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water it when the top inch of soil feels dry.
• Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season.
• Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix that is rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.
• Hardiness Zones: Begonia Minor is hardy in zones 10-12. It cannot tolerate frost or freezing temperatures.

Common Pests & Diseases

Begonia Minor is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases:

• Spider mites: These tiny pests can be difficult to spot but can cause damage to the leaves. Use an insecticidal soap to get rid of them.
• Mealybugs: These pests look like small balls of cotton and can cause damage to the leaves and stems. Use rubbing alcohol to remove them.
• Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves. It can be treated with a fungicide.

Habitat

Begonia Minor is native to Brazil and can be found in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. It grows in shaded areas in the understory of forests and can be found growing on rocks or trees.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Begonia Minor be grown outdoors?

A: Begonia Minor is not frost-hardy and is best grown as an indoor plant in most regions. However, it can be grown outdoors in zones 10-12 where temperatures do not drop below freezing.

Q: How often should I fertilize Begonia Minor?

A: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season.

Q: Can Begonia Minor be propagated?

A: Yes, Begonia Minor can be propagated by stem cuttings or leaf cuttings.

Q: How often should I water Begonia Minor?

A: Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry. Begonia Minor prefers to be kept moist but not waterlogged.

Related Plants

• Begonia Semperflorens
• Begonia Rex
• Begonia Elatior
• Begonia Maculata

References

• “Begonia Minor.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b564. Accessed 15 June 2021.
• “Begonia Minor.” University of Florida, IFAS Extension, sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/horticulture-commercial/begonia-minor/. Accessed 15 June 2021.
• “Dwarf Begonia.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/dwarf-begonia-1902819. Accessed 15 June 2021.