Fortune's Saxifrage Saxifraga 'Shiranami' (fortunei) (5)

Water

Strawberry begonia plants prefer evenly moist soil, so it’s important to water them thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. On average, during active growth in spring and summer, watering might be necessary once a week, with a reduction in fall and winter to every other week or less. Using room temperature water, generously water the plant until the excess runs from the drainage holes but do not let the plant sit in water. In terms of volume, aim for about 16 ounces of water every week during the growing season, adjusting based on the plant's response and environmental conditions.

Light

Strawberry begonias thrive in bright, indirect light but can tolerate moderate shade. Avoid direct sunlight, especially during the harsh midday hours, as it can scorch the leaves. A spot near a north-facing or east-facing window is often ideal, providing gentle morning light and diffused afternoon light.

Temperature

Strawberry begonias prefer a temperature range between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit but can survive in temperatures as low as 50 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 80 degrees Fahrenheit. They should be protected from drafts and sudden temperature changes to maintain steady growth.

Pruning

Pruning strawberry begonias is generally done to maintain plant shape and remove any yellow or dead leaves to promote healthier growth. Light pruning can be done at any time of year; however, significant pruning should be performed in the spring to encourage new growth. Removing the spent flowers will also help to keep the plant tidy and may encourage more blooms.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Strawberry Begonia prefers a well-draining soil mix with a slightly acidic pH of about 5.5 to 6.5. An ideal soil mixture would be one part peat, one part perlite, and two parts loam. Ensure good moisture retention while avoiding waterlogged conditions.

Repotting

Strawberry Begonia should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current pot. This ensures fresh soil and space for continued growth. Springtime is the best time to repot this plant.

Humidity & Misting

Strawberry Begonia thrives in moderate to high humidity levels, ideally ranging from 50% to 70%. Maintain consistent humidity but avoid overly moist conditions that can promote fungal diseases.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.

• Outdoor

  Ensure partial shade, cool conditions, and moist, rich soil.

• Hardiness zone

  6-9 USDA

Life cycle

The Saxifraga 'Shiranami', commonly known as Fortune's Saxifrage, begins its life cycle when seeds germinate, typically in moist, well-drained soil in part shade to full sun. Seedlings emerge and develop into rosettes of spoon-shaped, bright green leaves, where they will undergo vegetative growth. This perennial plant then matures and can produce offsets, contributing to its clump-forming habit which increases the plant's size each year. Flowering typically occurs in the spring, with the plant producing delicate, airy panicles of small, star-shaped white flowers that can attract pollinators. After pollination, if it occurs, seeds develop and are dispersed, continuing the generational cycle. During the winter or in adverse conditions, Fortune's Saxifrage may enter a period of dormancy, conserving energy and resources until favorable conditions return.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Propogation: The most popular method of propagating Saxifraga 'Shiranami', commonly known as the Fortunei Saxifrage, is by division, which is typically done in the spring as new growth appears. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the parent plant and gently separate the plant into smaller clumps, ensuring that each division has a portion of the root system attached. These divisions can then be replanted in a well-draining soil mix, ideally at the same depth they were growing previously. Water the new divisions thoroughly after planting to help establish them. This method allows for the fast establishment of new plants and is ideal for maintaining the varietal characteristics of the Fortunei Saxifrage.