Begonia Begonia 'Pollux'

Water

The Begonia 'Pollux', commonly known as Star Begonia, prefers evenly moist soil, so it should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Typically, this might be once a week, but it depends on the environment's humidity and temperature. Use room temperature water, and gently pour it around the base of the plant, avoiding wetting the leaves to prevent fungal diseases. The amount needed can range from 8 to 16 ounces, for a medium-sized pot, each time you water, ensuring you provide enough moisture to reach the roots without waterlogging the soil. During the winter months, reduce watering frequency as the plant's growth slows down.

Light

Star Begonia thrives in bright, indirect light situations, such as a north-facing or east-facing window where it can receive gentle morning sunlight but avoid the harsh afternoon rays. An ideal spot would be one that is well-lit for most of the day without direct sunlight hitting the foliage, which can scorch the leaves. Avoid placing it in low light conditions as it may affect the plant's growth and flowering potential.

Temperature

Star Begonias prefer a temperature range between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit but can tolerate temperatures as low as 50 degrees and as high as 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Always protect the plant from drafts and sudden temperature changes. The ideal conditions are a consistent, warm environment without exposure to extreme cold or heat.

Pruning

Pruning helps maintain the shape and health of your Star Begonia. Pinch off dead or yellowing leaves and spent blooms to encourage new growth and prevent disease. The best time for pruning is in the spring, just before the onset of the active growing season. You can also prune lightly throughout the year to shape the plant and promote bushiness.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for Begonia 'Pollux' consists of a well-draining, peat-based potting mix, with added perlite or vermiculite for aeration. The plant prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH ranging from approximately 6.0 to 7.0.

Repotting

Begonia 'Pollux' should be repotted every 1 to 2 years or when it becomes root-bound. The best time for repotting is in the spring before the start of the active growing season.

Humidity & Misting

The Begonia 'Pollux' thrives in high humidity conditions, typically above 50%, but avoiding soggy soil. Misting the plant or using a pebble tray can help maintain the desired humidity levels.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light with ample humidity.

• Outdoor

  Part shade, protect from strong sun and heavy rain.

• Hardiness zone

  10-11 USDA

Life cycle

The Begonia 'Pollux', commonly known as Star Begonia, starts its life cycle when a seed germinates, typically in a warm and humid environment. Once the seedling emerges, it develops its first set of true leaves and begins photosynthesizing. As the plant matures, it undergoes vegetative growth, forming a bushy structure with characteristic asymmetrical, patterned foliage and sometimes branching stems. The vegetative stage is followed by the flowering stage, during which the Star Begonia produces clusters of star-shaped flowers that can attract pollinators. After pollination, the flowers develop into winged capsules containing seeds, completing the reproduction stage. In favorable conditions, this perennial can continue growing and enter dormancy during cooler, less favorable seasons, only to resume growth in the following cycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Summer

• The Begonia 'Pollux', more commonly known as the Star Begonia, is best propagated during the warmer months of spring through early summer when the plant is in its active growth phase. The most popular method of propagation for this plant is by stem cuttings. To propagate Begonia 'Pollux' by stem cuttings, first choose a healthy stem with a few leaves and cut it just below a node, where the leaf joins the stem. The cutting should be about 3 to 4 inches (approximately 7.5 to 10 cm) long. Remove the lower leaves to expose the nodes and optionally, dip the cut end into rooting hormone to encourage root development. Then plant the cutting in a pot filled with a well-draining soil mixture, ensuring at least one node is beneath the soil surface. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and place the pot in a warm area with bright, indirect light. Roots typically develop within a few weeks, after which the new Begonia 'Pollux' can be treated as an established plant.