This hybrid variety of Begonia has rounded, pale green leaves which shine sunset-amber when the light shines through them; as they mature, each leaf will turn a deeper green. Add this foliage to a North-facing window for the best mix of indirect light and enhancing colour. In summer, you may also see pretty pale pink flowers blooming from this Begonia! Begonias like higher-than-average humidity like their tropical habitat, so somewhere like a kitchen would provide a good spot for this plant to really thrive.
Scientific Name Begonia mazae x kellermanii 'Marie Reed' (barley-cake Begonia crossed with Kellerman's Begonia, cultivar: Marie Reed)
This Begonia is a hybrid species of Begonia, from parents B. mazae and B. kellermanii.
Common Name Upright Begonia, Marie Reed Begonia
Origin Begonias are native to tropical areas, but this cultivar itself originated in the California, US.
Light Thrives in bright, indirect light, but will tolerate some shade. Water Keep the soil moist, but ensure good drainage and don't allow to sit in water. Water when the top inch of soil is dry, and reduce watering in winter.
Humidity Average household humidity is fine for this plant, but make sure it's not too close to a radiator as this will dry it out too much! Soil Plant in fast draining, but moisture retentive soil. A fertile mix with added coir or bark, or one designed for Syngoniums, would be ideal. This plant would also thrive in a terrarium, with terrarium soil. Repot once the plant and roots are crowding the pot.
Food Feed 3-4 times throughout the growing season (usually May- September). Temperature Likes warmer temperatures above 20°C - don't keep somewhere where temperatures drop below 13°C in winter.
Pet-safe No, this plant is toxic to pets and small humans.
Sprouts Top Tips Water directly into the soil, or bottom-water - these Begonias don't like getting their leaves wet.
We have launched our first (hopefully monthly) ‘Letter from the Founder’ blog post. I talk about a string of bad luck, from water gushing from various ceilings in my life to a break-in, and also reflect on the incredible work we have done to win two awards earlier this year. I look ahead to what’s coming up in August, projects we are working on with our clients, and some thoughts about the rest of the year. And I give an insight into my brain, why I am who I am and why I’m so thankful for all the opportunities, passion and excitement that running Sprouts has given me as a founder and as a woman.