Begonia are part of the Begoniaceae family and are native to SE. Brazil where it grows primarily in the wet tropical biome. ‘Snowcap’ is a cane Begonia cultivar, it has medium sized leaves (up to 20cm) which are olive-green in colour with small silver-white spots. Most cultivars in commercial production are complex hybrids of several Begonia species; this makes them difficult to describe as their genetic backgrounds haven’t been documented.
Genus name honours French administrator and amateur botanist Michel Bégon (1638–1710) who discovered the plant on the island of Santo Domingo.
Light: Bright indirect light, meaning the plant sees the sun for 0-4 hours per day - this could be through trees or a translucent curtain, it’s important for the plant to see the sky in order to thrive. 1-2 hours direct sun is tolerable.
Water: Given adequate light and a well draining potting mix, Begonia prefer mix to be evenly moist.
Potting mix: A rich well draining mix composed of coco coir, perlite or vermiculite, orchid bark and worm castings. Adding horticultural grit or sand is also a good amendment to increase drainage.
Fertilising: Feed your plant every other watering during the growing season or when you observe active growth. You can dilute fertiliser to half the recommended amount but never add more.
Temperature: 16-29˚C, the middle to lower end of this range is thought to be the best.
Humidity: Begonia prefer humidity of 60% and above but adapt well to home conditions.
Begonia are toxic, keep out of reach of pets and children.