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Description
Begonia Roxburghii, also known as Indian Begonia, is a species of flowering plant from the family Begoniaceae. It is native to India, Bhutan, and Nepal, and is commonly found in the Eastern Himalayas. The plant is identified by its large, asymmetrical, heart-shaped leaves and bright pink flowers with yellow centers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cucurbitales |
| Family | Begoniaceae |
| Genus | Begonia |
Appearance
Begonia Roxburghii grows up to 1.5 meters tall and 1 meter wide. Its leaves are large, asymmetrical, and heart-shaped, with a glossy texture and a dark green color. The flowers are bright pink, with a yellow center, and grow in clusters from the stem tips. The stems are thick and fleshy, and have a reddish-brown color.
Care Guide
Begonia Roxburghii is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it requires some specific conditions to thrive.
Water: The plant prefers moist soil, but it should not be overwatered. Allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering again.
Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season. Do not fertilize during the dormant season.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A peat-based potting mix is recommended.
Sunlight: Begonia Roxburghii prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Begonia Roxburghii is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases:
Pests: Spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids can infest the plant. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control these pests.
Diseases: The plant is susceptible to powdery mildew and bacterial leaf spot. Keep the plant in a well-ventilated area to prevent these diseases, and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
Begonia Roxburghii is native to the Eastern Himalayas, where it grows in moist, shady areas. It is commonly found in the understory of forests, along streams and rivers, and in rocky crevices.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Begonia Roxburghii poisonous?
A: Yes, Begonia Roxburghii is toxic to humans and pets if ingested. It can cause skin irritation as well.
Q: Can Begonia Roxburghii be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Begonia Roxburghii can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with bright, indirect sunlight and well-draining soil.
Q: When should I prune my Begonia Roxburghii?
A: Prune the plant in the spring, just before new growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged leaves and stems, and shape the plant as desired.
Q: Can Begonia Roxburghii be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Begonia Roxburghii can be propagated from stem cuttings. Take a cutting from a healthy stem, remove the lower leaves, and place the cutting in moist soil.
Related Plants
- Begonia Tuberosa
- Begonia Maculata
- Begonia Odorata
- Begonia Semperflorens
References
- “Begonia Roxburghii.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed July 13, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d861.
- “Begonia Roxburghii.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed July 13, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/183555/i-Begonia-roxburghii-i/Details.
- “Begonia Roxburghii.” The Plant List. Accessed July 13, 2021. http://www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/kew-362030.
