Angel Wing Begonia
begonia coccinea
Also known as: ["Iron Cross Begonia","Coccinea Begonia"]
Overview
A striking tropical plant with wing-shaped leaves and vibrant red flowers, native to Brazil.
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 coccinea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright room with high humidity, or shaded outdoor area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–27°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days, especially in dry indoor environments to maintain humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with peat, perlite, and organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderateeasy
Sunlight
bright, indirect light; tolerates partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense 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 waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, peat-based potting mix with added perlite or sand
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–75°F (18–24°C); prefers stable temperatures; avoid drafts or extreme fluctuations.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent warmth; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 2–4 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Maintain moisture.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and warm temperatures (70–75°F).
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water with occasional changes.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, small pot, water or soil medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy stems; keep cuttings warm and humid; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or use clean cuts to shape the plant.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy growth, spent flowers, and yellow leaves to encourage bushier growth and prevent disease.
Tools
Sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape for airflow; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Use fresh potting mix; ensure good drainage; gently tease out compacted roots.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain freely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
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 sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with chunky components.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth; may show chlorosis or bud drop in extreme cases.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently; ensure good air circulation.
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 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 coccinea. The oxalates in the plant can cause discomfort but are not generally considered highly toxic to felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Begonia coccinea can cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of oxalates. While not typically life-threatening, ingestion may lead to discomfort and mild symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicBegonia coccinea contains oxalates that can cause mild irritation and discomfort upon ingestion. The plant does not typically cause severe systemic toxicity but can lead to localized irritation in the mouth and digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Begonia coccinea?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7-10 days, avoiding waterlogged conditions.
Q: Does Begonia coccinea need direct sunlight?
A: It prefers bright, indirect light; direct sunlight can scorch its leaves.
Q: Why are the leaves of my Begonia coccinea turning yellow?
A: Yellow leaves may indicate overwatering, poor drainage, or nutrient deficiencies; adjust watering and check soil conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Begoniaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light; tolera |
| 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
