Bolivian Begonia
begonia boliviensis
Also known as: ["Bolivian Wax Begonia","Fibrous Begonia"]
Overview
A trailing or hanging Begonia species native to Bolivia, known for its pendulous clusters of bright orange-red flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Cucurbitales |
| Family: | Begoniaceae |
| Genus: | Begonia |
| Botanical Name: | Begonia boliviensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or outdoor hanging basket in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–28°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days during dry periods, or as needed to maintain humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, airy mix with peat, perlite, and compost; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 2–3 months to maintain shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon rays.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense sun to prevent scorching; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, humus-rich potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix designed for epiphytic plants; avoid compacted soil; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures in winter promote dormancy; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from sudden heat spikes.
Fertilizing
every 2–4 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to remove salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with leaf nodes; can also propagate from rhizomes or division.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least two leaf nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also use water propagation for cuttings.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or use clean cuts just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers and leggy stems to encourage bushier growth and more blooms.
Tools
Sharp pruning shears, sterilized scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged stems; remove spent flowers; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and blooming.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility; ensure aeration with chunky components.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold; stunted growth in unfavorable conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; use a heat mat if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges; flowers may drop prematurely.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer strength; fertilize during active growth; avoid dormant period.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest parts of Begonia boliviensis. The insoluble calcium oxalates can cause discomfort but are not typically fatal.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Begonia boliviensis can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of insoluble calcium oxalates. The effects are generally not life-threatening but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicBegonia boliviensis contains insoluble calcium oxalates, which can cause mild irritation and discomfort upon ingestion. The physiological impact is primarily localized to the oral cavity and gastrointestinal tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Begonia boliviensis be watered?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 5-7 days, depending on conditions.
Q: Does Begonia boliviensis require direct sunlight?
A: It prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight; direct sun can scorch the leaves.
Q: Is Begonia boliviensis safe for pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested, so keep it out of reach.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Begoniaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered ligh |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
