Fairy Begonia
begonia sutherlandii
Also known as: ["Fairy Begonia","Copperleaf Begonia"]
Overview
A species of flowering plant in the Begoniaceae family, native to eastern Africa, known for its delicate, bell-shaped flowers and attractive foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Cucurbitales |
| Family: | Begoniaceae |
| Genus: | Begonia |
| Botanical Name: | Begonia sutherlandii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or shaded outdoor garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–27°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days if indoor air is dry
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed throughout the growing season; lightly prune after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless rejuvenating an older plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense sun to prevent leaf scorch; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderateeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered light
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter strong light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter; ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, peat-based potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but dislikes extreme heat or cold.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 2–4 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to avoid burn; fertilize during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil; division of clumps is also effective.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 3–4 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or water for initial rooting.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, water or soil medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or cut just above a leaf node to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers and leggy stems to encourage bushier growth and more blooms.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in fresh soil with good drainage; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for younger plants to encourage growth.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, avoiding leaves to reduce fungal risk; water until it drains from the bottom, ensuring root zone saturation; 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; increase during active growth in spring/summer.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or yellowing in cold; stunted growth or leaf burn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dieback; roots become susceptible to rot in cold, wet soil.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; ensure soil is not overly wet.
Hot Stress
Leaves may curl, wilt, or develop brown edges; growth may slow or stop.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently if soil dries quickly.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; cease in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal distress if they ingest parts of Begonia sutherlandii. The oxalates in the plant can cause irritation to the mouth and digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Begonia sutherlandii can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of oxalates. The plant does not typically cause severe systemic toxicity but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicBegonia sutherlandii contains oxalates which can cause irritation and inflammation upon ingestion. The plant's physiological impact is primarily localized to the digestive tract and skin, with minimal systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Begonia sutherlandii?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7-10 days, avoiding waterlogged conditions.
Q: Does Begonia sutherlandii require direct sunlight?
A: It prefers bright, indirect light; direct sunlight can scorch its leaves.
Q: Is Begonia sutherlandii toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested, causing mild gastrointestinal upset.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Begoniaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered ligh |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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