Scarlet Begonia Begonia 'Fortune Scarlet Red' (Fortune Series) (T)

☠ Toxic to humans

🐾 Toxic to pets

🌸 Blooming

🍪 Not edible

‍🌱 Easy-care

ABOUT

Begonia 'Fortune Scarlet Red', part of the Fortune Series, is a striking ornamental plant known for its profusion of vibrant, bold flowers and lush foliage. The plant is characterized by its vivid scarlet red blossoms, which are noted for their showy and eye-catching appearance. These blossoms are typically large and possess a rounded shape with delicate, ruffled edges that contribute to their overall ornate look. The intense red color is rich and can range from a deep, almost crimson, to a bright, fiery scarlet depending on lighting conditions. The leaves of the Begonia 'Fortune Scarlet Red' are equally appealing, with a glossy texture that complements the flower's sheen. The foliage is a deep green with a distinct shape that can be described as both heart-like and somewhat asymmetrical, giving the leaves a unique and somewhat whimsical silhouette. The contrast between the green leaves and the red flowers creates a compelling and attractive aesthetic that makes the plant a popular choice for gardens and decorative arrangements. Overall, the appearance of the Begonia 'Fortune Scarlet Red' is one of lush fullness and vibrant color. Its flowers and foliage together present a lush and tropical look, often making it a central feature in garden displays or as a colorful specimen in pots and planters. Its aesthetic appeal lies in its ability to bring a splash of brilliant color to any setting.

Plant Info

Care

Common Problems

About this plant

Names
- Family
  Begoniaceae.
- Synonyms
  Scarlet Begonia, Fortune Scarlet Red Begonia, Wax Begonia, Fibrous Begonia.
- Common names
  Begonia 'Fortune Scarlet Red' (Fortune Series) (T).
Toxicity
- To humans
  Begonias, including the Fortune Scarlet Red Begonia, contain insoluble oxalates which can cause irritation to the mouth, throat, and gastrointestinal tract if ingested. Symptoms of Begonia poisoning may include a burning sensation in the mouth, difficulty swallowing, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, swelling of oral tissues can affect breathing, but this is rare. Handling the plant can sometimes cause skin irritation, so it's advisable to wear gloves as a precaution.
- To pets
  Begonias, such as the Fortune Scarlet Red Begonia, are toxic to pets due to the insoluble oxalates they contain. If ingested by dogs, cats, or other household pets, these oxalates can cause oral pain, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing due to irritation of the mouth and gastrointestinal tract. Symptoms may vary based on the amount ingested. It's recommended to keep pets away from this plant and seek veterinary care if you suspect they've ingested any part of it.
Characteristics
- Life cycle
  Annuals
- Foliage type
  Deciduous
- Color of leaves
  Green
- Flower color
  Scarlet Red
- Height
  12-16 inches (30-40 cm)
- Spread
  12-16 inches (30-40 cm)
- Plant type
  Herb
- Hardiness zones
  Varies
- Native area
  Tropical and subtropical regions

Benefits

General Benefits
- Attractive Foliage - Offers vibrant green leaves that add texture and contrast to garden spaces or indoor environments.
- Bright Flowers - Produces eye-catching scarlet red flowers that can enhance the aesthetics of any setting.
- Low Maintenance - Requires minimal care once established, making it a good choice for busy gardeners or those new to horticulture.
- Drought Tolerant - Withstands periods of low water once fully grown, which is beneficial in water-restricted areas or for reduced water use.
- Versatile - Can be used in a variety of settings, including borders, containers, and hanging baskets.
- Long Blooming Period - Typically blooms from late spring to frost, offering prolonged periods of color and interest.
- Compact Size - Grows to a manageable size that works well in small gardens or spaces.
- Attracts Pollinators - Can attract bees and butterflies, aiding in pollination of surrounding plants.
Medical Properties
This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses
- Photography Prop: Begonia 'Fortune Scarlet Red' with its vibrant flowers can be used as a natural vibrant backdrop for close-up photography, adding a touch of natural beauty and color contrast.
- Artistic Inspiration: The bright red petals can serve as a source of inspiration for artists and painters looking to replicate its intense hues and unique flower structure in their artwork.
- Learning Tool: Educators can use the plant in botany classes to teach about plant biology, flower structure, and the care of hybrid plants.
- Festive Decorations: The red color of the Begonia makes it a suitable plant for decorating during festive seasons like Christmas or Valentine’s Day.
- Color Dye: The petals may be used to create natural dyes for fabrics, though this is not a common practice given the value of the plant as an ornamental species.
- Wedding Bouquets: The striking flowers can be included in wedding bouquets or table arrangements for a splash of color.
- Edible Garnish: While not commonly known for culinary use, the petals of some begonia species are edible and can be used to garnish desserts and salads, though one should first ensure the specific variety is safe for consumption.
- Floral Crafts: Dried Begonia flowers can be incorporated into potpourris, greeting cards, or pressed flower crafts for their color and form.
- Theme Gardens: Can be used to create a color-themed garden area, where red-hued plants are featured to create a bold visual impact.
- Culinary Presentations: The bright flowers can be arranged on serving trays or platters to enhance the visual appeal of food presentations in high-end culinary establishments.

Interesting Facts

Feng Shui
The Begonia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign Compitability
The Begonia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism
- Caution: Begonias are often associated with a message of caution or warning. This can be interpreted as a reminder to be wary or to proceed carefully in a situation.
- Harmony: The balanced growth and vibrant color of the begonia can represent harmony and a sense of balance in one's life.
- Friendship: Gifting begonias can be a symbol of friendship, expressing affection and appreciation for another's companionship.
- Individuality: Begonias can symbolize uniqueness due to their wide variety of shapes and colors, encouraging one to embrace their individual traits.
- Gratitude: These plants can be a way to express gratitude, with their bright blooms seen as a token of appreciation and thankfulness.
- Resilience: Begonias are known for their ability to thrive in various conditions, symbolizing resilience and adaptability.

💧

Every 7-10 days

Water

☀️

2500 - 10000 Lux

Light

💦️

Humidity

🪴

Every 12-18 months

Repotting

🌱️

Spring-Early Summer

Propogation

✂️️

As needed

Pruning

Water
Wax begonias, including Begonia 'Fortune Scarlet Red', prefer consistent moisture but don't like to be overwatered. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which may be about once a week, depending on environmental conditions. Avoid getting water on the leaves to prevent fungal diseases; water directly at the base. Use approximately 8-16 ounces of water for a small to medium-sized pot, ensuring excess water drains out. During winter months, reduce watering frequency to prevent root rot.
Light
Wax begonias thrive in bright, indirect light, making an east or west-facing window a suitable spot for Begonia 'Fortune Scarlet Red'. They can tolerate some direct morning sunlight but need protection from the harsh midday sun. The ideal lighting conditions will promote vibrant foliage and abundant flowering without risking leaf burn.
Temperature
Wax begonias prefer temperatures between 60-75°F, but they can withstand brief periods outside of this range. Keep Begonia 'Fortune Scarlet Red’ away from drafts and drastic temperature changes to avoid stress. Protection from temperatures below 50°F is necessary, as cold conditions can cause harm to the plant.
Pruning
Pruning wax begonias encourages bushier growth and more blooms. For Begonia 'Fortune Scarlet Red', pinch or trim off the tips of the stems periodically throughout the growing season. The best time to prune extensively is in the spring, but light, regular pinching can be done anytime.
Cleaning
As needed
Soil
Scarlet Begonia prefers well-draining soil with a mix of peat, perlite, and compost, providing aeration and moisture retention. Aim for slightly acidic to neutral pH, between 6.0 and 7.0.
Repotting
Scarlet Begonia should be repotted every 1-2 years or when it becomes root-bound to encourage growth and health.
Humidity & Misting
Scarlet Begonia thrives in high humidity conditions, ideally between 50-70%. Avoid overly dry air which can cause leaf problems.
Suitable locations
- Indoor
  Place in bright, indirect light with high humidity.
- Outdoor
  Partial shade, protect from strong winds and harsh sun.
- Hardiness zone
  10-11 USDA.
Life cycle
The life cycle of the Begonia 'Fortune Scarlet Red', a member of the Fortune Series, begins with seed germination, whereupon the seeds require a warm temperature and light to initiate growth. Following germination, the seedlings develop their first true leaves and gradually establish a root system. As the plant enters the vegetative stage, it produces robust foliage and stems, becoming bushier and forming its characteristic large, scarlet red flowers during the blooming period, which generally occurs in the warmer months. After flowering, if pollinated, the plant may produce seed capsules that, when mature, release seeds to propagate the next generation. In temperate regions, begonias typically behave as annuals, completing their life cycle within one growing season; however, in their natural tropical and subtropical environments, or when cultivated indoors, they can be perennial, living for several years. Over time, if provided with proper care, the plant will continue to grow and cycle through periods of flowering and dormancy.
Propogation
- Propogation time
  Spring-Early Summer
- The Begonia 'Fortune Scarlet Red', commonly known as Fortune Begonia, propagates best through stem cuttings. This popular method involves taking a healthy stem cutting, ideally about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) long, ensuring it has at least a couple of leaves attached. The cutting should be snipped just below a leaf node, as this is the area that will generate new roots. The base of the cutting is then dipped into rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth and planted into a pot filled with a well-draining soil mix, such as a combination of peat and perlite. The soil should be kept moist, but not soggy, and the pot placed in indirect light at a warm temperature around 70°F (21°C) to facilitate rooting. Roots should begin to form within a few weeks, and once the new plant is established, it can be transplanted into a more permanent container or garden location.