Begonia sizemoreae is a beautiful and rare species of Begonia native to Vietnam. It's prized by plant collectors for its velvety, textured leaves and deep coloration. Here’s a full description and care guide to help you grow and maintain it successfully.
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🌿 Begonia sizemoreae – Description
Family: Begoniaceae
Origin: Vietnam
Type: Rhizomatous Begonia
Foliage:
Deep green to bronze-colored leaves with a velvety texture.
Leaves are ovate or slightly rounded with red undersides.
Leaf surface often has fine hairs and is slightly iridescent under certain lighting.
Flowers:
Small, pink or white flowers may appear seasonally.
Grown more for foliage than blooms.
Growth habit: Compact, low-growing; spreads horizontally via rhizomes.
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🪴 Care Guide for Begonia sizemoreae
🌞 Light:
Bright, indirect light is best.
Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
Can tolerate lower light but may grow more slowly.
🌡️ Temperature:
Ideal range: 65–80°F (18–27°C)
Protect from cold; not frost-hardy.
Avoid temperature drops below 55°F (13°C).
💧 Watering:
Keep soil evenly moist, but not soggy.
Allow the top 1 inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
Avoid getting water on the leaves to prevent mildew or spotting.
🌫️ Humidity:
Prefers high humidity (60–80%).
Use a humidifier, humidity tray, or grow it in a terrarium.
Dry air may cause crispy leaf edges.
🪨 Soil:
Use a well-draining mix such as:
1 part peat or coco coir
1 part perlite or pumice
Optional: a bit of orchid bark or charcoal
Needs good aeration to avoid root rot.
🌱 Potting:
Use a shallow pot that accommodates its rhizomatous growth.
Repot every 1–2 years or when rhizomes outgrow the pot.
🌼 Fertilizer:
Feed every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer).
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer (half strength).
Reduce or stop feeding in winter.
✂️ Pruning:
Remove dead or yellowing leaves to encourage healthy growth.
Can be trimmed lightly to control shape and size.
🔁 Propagation:
Easily propagated via leaf or rhizome cuttings.
Place cuttings in moist soil or sphagnum moss under high humidity until roots develop.
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⚠️ Common Issues
Problem Cause Solution
Leaf browning/crisping Low humidity Increase humidity, use a humidifier or tray.
Leaf spots Water on leaves or fungal issues Water at soil level; improve air circulation.
Root rot Overwatering or poor drainage Let soil dry between watering; improve soil.
Leggy growth Not enough light Move to brighter, indirect light.
---
✅ Tips for Success
Best for terrariums or humid indoor environments.
Avoid frequent repotting; begonia roots are delicate.
Don't let water sit in the crown of the plant.
---
If you're a collector or looking for a standout foliage plant for a humid indoor environment, Begonia sizemoreae is a stunning choice with its jewel-like leaves and compact habit.
Begonia sizemoreae is a beautiful and rare species of Begonia native to Vietnam. It's prized by plant collectors for its velvety, textured leaves and deep coloration. Here’s a full description and care guide to help you grow and maintain it successfully.
---
🌿 Begonia sizemoreae – Description
Family: Begoniaceae
Origin: Vietnam
Type: Rhizomatous Begonia
Foliage:
Deep green to bronze-colored leaves with a velvety texture.
Leaves are ovate or slightly rounded with red undersides.
Leaf surface often has fine hairs and is slightly iridescent under certain lighting.
Flowers:
Small, pink or white flowers may appear seasonally.
Grown more for foliage than blooms.
Growth habit: Compact, low-growing; spreads horizontally via rhizomes.
---
🪴 Care Guide for Begonia sizemoreae
🌞 Light:
Bright, indirect light is best.
Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
Can tolerate lower light but may grow more slowly.
🌡️ Temperature:
Ideal range: 65–80°F (18–27°C)
Protect from cold; not frost-hardy.
Avoid temperature drops below 55°F (13°C).
💧 Watering:
Keep soil evenly moist, but not soggy.
Allow the top 1 inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
Avoid getting water on the leaves to prevent mildew or spotting.
🌫️ Humidity:
Prefers high humidity (60–80%).
Use a humidifier, humidity tray, or grow it in a terrarium.
Dry air may cause crispy leaf edges.
🪨 Soil:
Use a well-draining mix such as:
1 part peat or coco coir
1 part perlite or pumice
Optional: a bit of orchid bark or charcoal
Needs good aeration to avoid root rot.
🌱 Potting:
Use a shallow pot that accommodates its rhizomatous growth.
Repot every 1–2 years or when rhizomes outgrow the pot.
🌼 Fertilizer:
Feed every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer).
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer (half strength).
Reduce or stop feeding in winter.
✂️ Pruning:
Remove dead or yellowing leaves to encourage healthy growth.
Can be trimmed lightly to control shape and size.
🔁 Propagation:
Easily propagated via leaf or rhizome cuttings.
Place cuttings in moist soil or sphagnum moss under high humidity until roots develop.
---
⚠️ Common Issues
Problem Cause Solution
Leaf browning/crisping Low humidity Increase humidity, use a humidifier or tray.
Leaf spots Water on leaves or fungal issues Water at soil level; improve air circulation.
Root rot Overwatering or poor drainage Let soil dry between watering; improve soil.
Leggy growth Not enough light Move to brighter, indirect light.
---
✅ Tips for Success
Best for terrariums or humid indoor environments.
Avoid frequent repotting; begonia roots are delicate.
Don't let water sit in the crown of the plant.
---
If you're a collector or looking for a standout foliage plant for a humid indoor environment, Begonia sizemoreae is a stunning choice with its jewel-like leaves and compact habit.
