Begonia soli-mutata (Sun-Changing Begonia)
Sun-Changing Begonia, Begonia glaziovii, Begonia 'Burle Marx', Rhizomatous Begonias
Award-winning Begonia soli-mutata (Sun-Changing Begonia) is an evergreen, creeping, rhizomatous perennial mostly grown for its spectacular foliage of heart-shaped, dark green leaves adorned with lime-green radiating veins and scarlet edges. Their upper surface is uneven, covered with tiny hair and raised lumps as if the plant had goose bumps. Soli-mutata means "sun changing" as a reflection of its leaves changing color with the light intensity. The more light, the darker the leaves. As an added bonus, clusters of white flowers are held above the leaves. Perfect for pots and containers, it makes a wonderful houseplant.
- Winner of the Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
- Grows up to 6-12 in. tall (15-30 cm) and 15-18 in. wide (37-45 cm).
- Prefers partial shade and organically rich, moist but well-drained soils. This begonia requires high humidity during the growing period. Let the soil dry between waterings and avoid overwatering as it may cause fungal diseases or rot. Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser at alternative waterings. Keep barely moist over winter
- Propagate by leaf cuttings or sections of rhizome.
- No pruning required. Remove dead leaves promptly and keep the soil surface free of debris to avoid disease problems.
- Watch for caterpillars, mealybugs, tarsonemid mite, thrips, vine weevil, aphids and powder mildew.
- Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.
- Native to Brazil.
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Requirements
Hardiness | 10
– 11 |
---|---|
Heat Zones | 1
– 11 |
Climate Zones | 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, H1, H2 |
Plant Type | Perennials |
Plant Family | Begonias |
Exposure | Partial Sun |
Season of Interest |
Spring (Early,Mid,Late) Summer (Early,Mid,Late) Fall Winter |
Height | 6" – 1' (15cm – 30cm) |
Spread | 1' – 2' (30cm – 60cm) |
Spacing | 18" (45cm) |
Water Needs | Average |
Maintenance | High |
Soil Type | Clay, Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Plant of Merit, Showy, Evergreen |
Garden Uses | Patio and Containers |
By del Boy, Toff Boland/ Shutterstock
While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.
Requirements
Hardiness | 10
– 11 |
---|---|
Heat Zones | 1
– 11 |
Climate Zones | 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, H1, H2 |
Plant Type | Perennials |
Plant Family | Begonias |
Exposure | Partial Sun |
Season of Interest |
Spring (Early,Mid,Late) Summer (Early,Mid,Late) Fall Winter |
Height | 6" – 1' (15cm – 30cm) |
Spread | 1' – 2' (30cm – 60cm) |
Spacing | 18" (45cm) |
Water Needs | Average |
Maintenance | High |
Soil Type | Clay, Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Plant of Merit, Showy, Evergreen |
Garden Uses | Patio and Containers |