Metallic Begonia Begonia metallica

Water

Metallic Begonia prefers soil that is consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which is roughly once every week, depending on environmental conditions. Use lukewarm water and aim to provide enough water to moisten the soil without leaving the plant sitting in excess water. Generally, this means you may water with around 16-24 ounces each time for a standard indoor pot size. Always check the soil moisture before watering to prevent overwatering, which can lead to root rot.

Light

Metallic Begonia thrives in bright, indirect light. It's best placed near an east or west-facing window where it will receive some morning or late afternoon sun but is protected from the harsh midday rays. Avoid direct sunlight, especially during summer, as it can scorch the leaves of the plant, and keep it away from deep shade as this can lead to leggy growth and fewer leaves.

Temperature

The ideal temperature range for Metallic Begonia is between 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive minimum temperatures of about 60 degrees Fahrenheit and maximum temperatures around 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep the plant away from drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations to maintain consistent growing conditions.

Pruning

Prune Metallic Begonia to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. It's best to prune in the spring as new growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged leaves and stems, and you can also trim back leggy growth to promote a more compact plant. Pruning every few months or as needed to remove unwanted growth can keep your Begonia looking its best.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Begonia metallica, commonly known as Metallic Begonia, thrives in a well-draining soil mix that can be made by combining two parts peat moss with one part perlite or coarse sand to enhance drainage. The pH for Metallic Begonia should ideally be maintained slightly acidic to neutral, around 5.5-6.5.

Repotting

Metallic Begonia should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it becomes root-bound. Repotting is best done in the spring or early summer to give the plant ample time to establish itself before the dormant period.

Humidity & Misting

Metallic Begonia prefers high humidity levels, ideally between 60-70%. If the air in your home is dry, it may benefit from the use of a humidifier or regular misting to maintain these humidity conditions.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Grow Metallic Begonia indoors with bright, indirect light and high humidity.

• Outdoor

  Keep Metallic Begonia in shaded areas when grown outdoors and protect from frost.

• Hardiness zone

  10-11 USDA

Life cycle

Begonia metallica, commonly known as Metallic Begonia, begins its life cycle when its seeds germinate in a warm, humid environment with indirect light. The seedlings emerge and develop into young plants, sprouting characteristic heart-shaped, metallic-looking leaves with red undersides and a lush, bushy growth habit. As the plant matures, it forms a tuberous base that stores energy and allows it to endure less than ideal conditions. During its active growth period, typically in the spring and summer, the Metallic Begonia may produce small, pink or white flowers, although the plant is primarily grown for its attractive foliage. After flowering, the plant goes into a period of dormancy, particularly in cooler climates, where it may lose leaves and appear to die back, conserving energy in its tuber. With the return of favorable growing conditions, the tuber will sprout new growth, and the plant re-enters its vegetative state, thus continuing its perennial cycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Propogation: The Begonia metallica, commonly known as Metallic Begonia, is best propagated during its active growth period, which is usually in the spring or early summer. The most popular method to propagate it is through stem cuttings. To do so, select a healthy, non-flowering stem and cut a 4 to 6-inch (10 to 15 cm) length just below a node using a clean, sharp knife or scissors. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting to expose the nodes. These nodes are where new roots will emerge. Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix, ensuring at least one or two nodes are buried in the soil. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy, and maintain a high humidity environment if possible. Bright, indirect light will help facilitate rooting, which typically occurs in a few weeks. Once the cutting has established a robust root system, it can be treated as a mature plant.