A bold and eye-catching begonia with richly textured foliage and striking colour contrasts, Begonia ‘Draco’ brings a dramatic, almost gothic feel to your indoor plant collection. Its sculptural leaves and deep tones make it a real statement piece, perfect for shelves or side tables where its details can be fully appreciated.
Scientific Name
Begonia ‘Draco’ (cultivated hybrid begonia)
Common Name
Draco Begonia
Origin
Cultivated hybrid, bred from species native to tropical and subtropical regions, particularly South America and Asia.
Light
Prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves and fade their colour. Too little light may result in slower growth and less vibrant foliage.
Water
Allow the top couple of centimetres of soil to dry out between waterings. Keep the soil lightly moist but never soggy. Reduce watering in winter when growth slows.
Humidity
Thrives in higher humidity. Ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, or near a humidifier. Avoid misting directly onto the leaves, as this can cause spotting
Soil
Use a well-draining, airy potting mix. A blend suited to houseplants with added perlite or bark works well to prevent waterlogging.
Food
Feed every 2–4 waters during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertiliser. Reduce feeding in autumn and winter.
Temperature
Prefers temperatures between 18–24°C. Avoid exposure to temperatures below 12°C and keep away from cold drafts.
Pet-safe
Toxic if ingested, so keep out of reach of pets and children.
Sprouts Top Tips
If the leaves start to crisp at the edges, it’s usually a sign the air is too dry. Increasing humidity will help keep the foliage looking its best.
Extras
Begonias can be sensitive to overwatering, so always err on the side of slightly drier soil rather than too wet.
Did You Know?
There are over 1,800 species of Begonia, making it one of the largest plant genera, with an incredible variety of leaf shapes, colours, and textures.
