Contents
Description
Begonia Tapatia is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the Begoniaceae family. It is native to Mexico and is known for its strikingly beautiful leaves and flowers. The plant is a perennial that grows up to 40 cm in height and spreads up to 50 cm in width. The leaves of Begonia Tapatia are asymmetrical, with a dark green upper surface and a reddish purple underside. The flowers are small, pink, and bloom from late summer to early fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cucurbitales |
| Family | Begoniaceae |
| Genus | Begonia |
Appearance
Begonia Tapatia has large and showy leaves that can grow up to 15 cm in length and 10 cm in width. The leaves are asymmetrical and have a dark green upper surface and a reddish purple underside. The flowers are small, pink, and bloom in clusters from late summer to early fall. The plant has a bushy growth habit and can grow up to 40 cm in height and spread up to 50 cm in width. Overall, Begonia Tapatia is a very attractive plant that can add a splash of color to any garden or indoor space.
Care Guide
Begonia Tapatia is relatively easy to care for, but it does have specific requirements to ensure it grows healthily. Here are some tips on how to care for Begonia Tapatia:
- Water: Begonia Tapatia prefers consistently moist soil, but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: Begonia Tapatia prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Begonia Tapatia prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, especially during the hottest part of the day.
- Hardiness Zones: Begonia Tapatia is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Begonia Tapatia is susceptible to some common pests and diseases, including:
- Aphids: Small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the leaves. Spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil to control.
- Spider mites: Tiny arachnids that feed on the plant’s sap, causing yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil to control.
- Powdery mildew: A fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and spray the plant with a fungicide.
Habitat
Begonia Tapatia is native to Mexico and is found growing in tropical and subtropical forests. It prefers a warm, humid environment and can be grown outdoors in USDA zones 10-12 or indoors as a houseplant.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Begonia Tapatia be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Begonia Tapatia can be grown indoors as a houseplant. It prefers bright, indirect light and consistently moist soil.
Q: How often should I fertilize Begonia Tapatia?
A: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and blooming.
Q: How often should I water Begonia Tapatia?
A: Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. Begonia Tapatia prefers consistently moist soil, but not waterlogged.
Q: Can Begonia Tapatia tolerate direct sunlight?
A: Begonia Tapatia prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, especially during the hottest part of the day, as it can scorch the leaves.
Related Plants
- Begonia falcata
- Begonia grandis
- Begonia rex
- Begonia semperflorens
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/begonia-care.htm
- https://www.thespruce.com/grow-begonias-as-houseplants-1902709
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/begonia-tapatia
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/begonia
