An angel-wing begonia with olive leaves spotted silver above and deep red beneath. Cane-like and elegant, it dangles clusters of white flowers in season.
At a glance
- Plant type: Indoor plant
- Mature size: 1 m tall
- Aspect: part shade or morning sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Polka Dot Begonia
Begonia maculata is a moderate-growing indoor plant in the Begoniaceae family. It reaches around 1 m tall at maturity, with evergreen, variegated and silver-grey foliage.
Where to grow Polka Dot Begonia
Polka Dot Begonia suits tropical and subtropical climates and grows best in part shade or morning sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Polka Dot Begonia provided drainage is reasonable. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Polka Dot Begonia does best with regular, moderate watering. Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to support healthy growth. During the first growing season, water deeply whenever the upper soil begins to dry, then reduce the frequency as roots establish.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Polka Dot Begonia in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Its ongoing care level is moderate maintenance.
Using Polka Dot Begonia in the garden
Polka Dot Begonia earns its place for pots and courtyard containers and a feature or specimen planting. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
Build the planting around neighbours suited to the same regular, moderate watering and tropical climate as Polka Dot Begonia. Repeating the foliage or flower colour nearby will make the composition feel deliberate.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew.
Buying Polka Dot Begonia
Plant Sale lists Polka Dot Begonia as potted plants. Use the interest form above to check current sizes, pricing and availability before ordering.
