Begonia Silver Spirit Begonia 'Silver Spirit' (R)
ABOUT
The Begonia 'Silver Spirit' is an ornamental plant that is valued for its stunning foliage and overall aesthetic. Its leaves are a standout feature, displaying a silver sheen that gives the plant its name. The leaves are also textured, often with pronounced veining that adds depth and interest to their appearance. The overall foliage coloration could be described as a silvery green, sometimes with specks or patterns that catch the light in an eye-catching way. Flowering in Begonias varies, and 'Silver Spirit' could exhibit delicate blossoms that contrast or complement the foliage, often emerging in clusters. The color of the flowers typically ranges in the pastel spectrum, providing a soft display that does not overshadow the boldness of the leaves. The form of this Begonia, like many of its relatives, is likely a pleasing combination of compact and bushy, contributing to its popularity as a houseplant or a shaded garden specimen. The texture of the leaves can range from smooth and glossy to slightly hairy, depending on the specific hybridization of this variety. The stems may be succulent and fleshy, supporting the leaves with a robustness that is characteristic of many Begonia varieties. Overall, the 'Silver Spirit' Begonia presents a lush and exotic appearance with its unique foliage and complementary blooms, making it a sought-after choice for plant enthusiasts and gardeners looking for a spectacular, non-demanding plant to enhance their living space or garden.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Begoniaceae
Synonyms
Silver Spirit Begonia
Common names
Begonia 'Silver Spirit' (R).
ToxicityTo humans
Begonias, including the 'Silver Spirit' variety, can be toxic when ingested. They contain compounds like oxalates that can cause irritation in the mouth, lips, throat, and gastrointestinal tract if eaten. Symptoms may include a burning sensation, swelling of the mouth and throat, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is important to avoid eating any part of the plant and to keep it out of reach of children who might accidentally ingest it.
To pets
Begonias, such as the 'Silver Spirit', are toxic to pets if ingested due to the presence of insoluble oxalates. If a pet, such as a cat or dog, eats any part of the plant, they might experience symptoms like oral irritation, pawing at the mouth, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. It is crucial to prevent pets from chewing on or ingesting the plant to avoid these adverse reactions.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Silver
Flower color
Pink
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
10
Native area
Tropical South America
Benefits
General Benefits- Easy Maintenance: Begonia 'Silver Spirit' is known for being low maintenance, requiring minimal care once established.
- Ornamental Appeal: With its attractive foliage, it adds visual interest to gardens and indoor spaces.
- Versatility: It can be grown in a variety of settings, from containers to flower beds.
- Shade Tolerance: This plant can thrive in shaded areas where other plants might not perform well.
- Colorful Foliage: The silver and green foliage provides a striking contrast in plant arrangements.
- Long Flowering Period: It has a lengthy blooming season, offering flowers for an extended time each year.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it can tolerate periods of dryness, reducing the need for frequent watering.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Edible flowers: Begonia 'Silver Spirit' flowers are edible and can add a citrus-like tangy flavor to salads, sandwiches or as a garnish to desserts.
- Photography subject: With its unique silver-patterned leaves, the Begonia can be an intriguing subject for macro photography and botanical art.
- Crafts: Press its leaves or flowers to make botanical prints or incorporate them into homemade paper, bookmarks, or greeting cards.
- Teaching Tool: It can be used in botany classes to teach about hybridization, leaf patterning, and horticultural breeding techniques.
- Color Splash: Container gardening with Begonia 'Silver Spirit' can create vibrant pops of color in areas with limited sunlight, such as covered patios or balconies.
- Living Decor: Small Begonia plants can be used as living decorations on dining tables or as centerpieces for special occasions.
- Wearable Art: The distinctive flowers and leaves can be used to create unique and natural jewelry pieces, like earrings or pendants.
- Seasonal Themes: During Halloween or fall festivities, Begonia can be incorporated into decorations due to its unusual foliage that can complement a spooky or autumnal theme.
- Miniature Gardening: This plant can be incorporated into fairy gardens or terrariums, contributing to a lush, magical miniature landscape.
- Color Teaching: Its various shades can be used to teach children or art students about hues, shades, and complementary colors in nature.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Begonia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Begonia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Beware - Begonias in general can symbolize caution or warning, which might be tied to their sometimes toxic nature or the need for special care they require.
- Uniqueness - The 'Silver Spirit' variety of Begonia, with its distinct silver foliage, may represent individuality or standing out from the crowd.
- Harmony - The symmetrical pattern and balance in the growth of these plants can be a representation of harmony and balance in life.
- Resilience - As Begonia 'Silver Spirit' can thrive in various conditions, they can symbolize resilience and the ability to adapt.
WaterThe Rex Begonia requires consistent moisture but does not like to be waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which might translate to about once a week, depending on environmental conditions. Use room temperature water and gently water the plant until it starts to drain from the bottom of the pot; this could be about 8-16 ounces for small to medium pots on average each time. Avoid getting water on the leaves to prevent fungal diseases. During the winter, reduce the frequency of watering as the plant goes into dormancy.
LightRex Begonias prefer bright, indirect sunlight as too much direct sun can scorch their leaves. A north-facing or east-facing window is an ideal spot for this plant, ensuring they receive ample light without the harsh midday sun. If grown indoors, a spot that receives several hours of indirect light but is protected from direct afternoon rays is perfect.
TemperatureRex Begonias thrive in temperatures between 60 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit, avoiding drafts and sudden temperature changes. They should not be exposed to temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit as cold temperatures can damage the plant. Maintain a warm and stable environment to keep your Rex Begonia healthy.
PruningPrune your Rex Begonia to maintain shape and encourage bushy growth. The best time for pruning is in the spring. Pinch back new growth and remove any dead or dying leaves to promote a fuller plant. Pruning every few months, or as needed when the plant looks untidy, will keep it healthy and attractive.
CleaningAs needed
SoilBegonia 'Silver Spirit' requires a well-draining soil mix rich in organic matter. A combination of peat moss, perlite, and composted bark is ideal, maintaining a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 5.5 to 6.5 for optimal growth.
RepottingSilver Spirit Begonia should be repotted every 1-2 years or when it becomes root-bound. The best time to repot is in the spring just before the growing season.
Humidity & MistingSilver Spirit Begonia thrives in high humidity levels, ideally between 50% and 70%. Regular misting or a humidity tray can help maintain these conditions indoors.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and maintain high humidity.
Outdoor
Shelter from strong sun; protect from frost; ensure high humidity.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life of the Begonia 'Silver Spirit' (R) begins with seed germination, where the seed requires warmth, light, and moisture to sprout. After the initial sprout, it enters the seedling stage where the first set of true leaves develops and photosynthesis begins. As it matures into a juvenile plant, it grows in size and foliage, establishing a stronger root system. The adult stage is marked by the plant reaching its full size and starting to produce flower buds. During its reproductive stage, the Begonia 'Silver Spirit' flowers, which, after pollination, can result in the production of seeds, thereby completing its life cycle. Throughout its life, it may enter a period of dormancy, particularly in cooler climates or off-seasons, before resuming growth when conditions become favorable again.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Begonia 'Silver Spirit' can be propagated effectively through leaf cuttings. This popular method involves taking a healthy leaf from the mother plant and making a clean cut across one of the larger veins on the underside of the leaf. You will then lay the leaf, cut side down, on a moist potting mix, securing it with a light layer of soil or small stones. Placing the potted leaf in a warm spot with bright, indirect light, and covering it with a plastic bag to maintain humidity, will create an ideal environment for roots to develop. In a few weeks, tiny new begonias will begin to emerge at the vein cuts. Once these new plants have grown large enough and have a robust root system, they can be separated gently and repotted as individual plants. This method not only efficiently produces new plants but also allows you to make the most of a single leaf.
