Begonia Care: Maculata (Polka Dot) + More
Begonia maculata 'Wightii' (polka dot begonia), rex begonias and other indoor begonias
At a glance
| βοΈ Light | Bright indirect. |
|---|---|
| π§ Water | When the top 2β3 cm is dry. |
| πͺ΄ Soil | Airy: Tropical mix with extra perlite. |
| π‘οΈ Temp | 16β27Β°C. |
| π¨ Humidity | Average to high (but good air flow). |
| πΎ Pets | Not pet safe Toxic to cats and dogs if chewed. |
| π± Care level | Moderate |
| π Grows to | 30 cm to 1 m (maculata is a tall cane type). |
The polka dot begonia has angel-wing leaves covered in silver spots, with deep red undersides and clusters of white flowers. It's a showstopper and grows quickly. Begonias like steady care: not too wet, not too dry, and good air flow.
Light + placement
Bright, indirect light gives the best spots and flowers. Avoid direct afternoon sun, which scorches the leaves. In low light the canes get leggy.
Watering
Water when the top 2β3 cm of soil is dry, then let it drain. Begonias hate both soggy soil and drying out completely. Water the soil, not the leaves.
Soil + repotting
A light, airy mix: our Tropical Potting Mix with extra perlite. Begonias like a snug pot; repot only when roots fill it.
Feeding + upkeep
Feeding: We feed with Kelpy, a gentle plant food made from BC kelp. Mix 1 teaspoon into 1 litre of water and use it every time you water; this is a hungry plant. Kelpy is gentle enough to use year-round. Our rule of thumb: if your plant is putting out new growth, even in winter, keep feeding. If it's resting, you'll be watering less, so it gets fed less too.
For a slow, natural boost, top-dress the pot with a thin layer of worm castings every few months, or mix some in when you repot. Prefer a granular food? BIOS Natural Plant Food mixes into the top layer of soil (about 1 tablespoon per 6-inch pot) once a month while your plant is growing. A little white fuzz on the soil afterwards is normal; it's the helpful fungi at work.
Pinch or cut tall canes in spring just above a node to make it bushier; the cuttings root easily in water.
Propagation
Cane begonias root easily from stem cuttings in water. See Propagation 101.
Common problems
| What you see | Likely cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| White powdery coating on leaves | Powdery mildew | Improve air flow; don't mist; remove affected leaves. |
| Yellow, dropping leaves | Overwatering | Let the top few cm dry first. |
| Crispy brown edges | Dried out or dry air | Water more consistently. |
| Tall, leggy canes | Low light or no pruning | More light; pinch back in spring. |
| Scorched patches | Direct sun | Move to indirect light. |
Varieties we carry
Same basic care for our polka dot, rex, trailing and other begonias. Only what's in stock online right now is shown.
None in stock online right now. New plants arrive every week, so check back soon or ask us in the shop.
Frequently asked questions
Should I mist my begonia?
No. Wet leaves invite powdery mildew. Raise humidity another way.
Is a begonia safe for pets?
No. Begonias are toxic to cats and dogs if chewed.
How do I make my polka dot begonia bushier?
Pinch the tops of the canes in spring and replant the cuttings.
Does it flower?
Yes. In bright light it produces clusters of white or pink flowers.
Begonia care kit
- Tropical Potting Mix: Our all-round Soil Bar mix for leafy tropicals.
- Perlite: Lightens any mix so roots get more air.
- Pruning Shears: Clean, sharp cuts when shaping or removing leaves.
- Kelpy Plant Growth Booster: Gentle BC kelp plant food you can use year-round.
- Worm Castings: A slow, natural boost from our Soil Bar. Top-dress every few months.
Bring your plant (or a photo) to 515 Chatham St #103 and we'll take a look. Open 11β5, 7 days a week, with street parking nearby. Get directions β
More plant care guides
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