One of the most spectacular leaf begonias, light green dots against a dark green background

This species from the Hose mountain range in central Sarawak, Borneo, grows semi-creeping, semi-erect with stems that can reach 80 centimeters in height and become woody over time, although it rarely grows that large in cultivation.

The leaves reach about 20 centimeters in length and 15 centimeters in width with sharply defined light green dots and a narrow light green edge. The underside of the leaves is deep red. In low light, the dark green parts can develop a slight blue iridescence. The plant produces separate male and female inflorescences, the male flowers are small and yellow-pink while the female flowers are larger, bright red and drooping.

Botanical description

Begonia chlorosticta comes from the Hose Mountain Range in central Sarawak, Borneo, an area particularly known for its remoteness and pristine rainforest. It probably grows in lowlands below 1500 meters in the shady undergrowth of the rainforest.

The Latin name chlorosticta means "green-spotted" and describes the appearance of the natural form, light green spots on a dark green background. There is also a dark form or "Dark Form" (also called 'Red' or 'Black') with almost black leaves and light green spots. This dark form is so distinctive that it is rumored to soon be described as a separate species with a new name.

The plant belongs to the group of leaf begonias and is highly prized by collectors for its dramatic leaf pattern. The female inflorescences almost always produce exactly 2 flowers while the male inflorescences have 10-30 small individual flowers.

Care

Begonia chlorosticta requires relatively laborious but completely feasible care. A terrarium makes it much easier to create the right conditions with high humidity (at least 70%) and good air circulation at the same time.

Place in partial shade with good ventilation but high humidity. The plant does not thrive in temperatures above 35°C permanently. A night drop of 5°C promotes healthy growth. Ideal temperature 20-28°C during the day, 15-23°C at night.

Use a very loose and airy substrate, long-fibred sphagnum moss or special begonia substrate works great. Keep permanently slightly moist but never wet, and never let dry out completely. In a terrarium, make sure that water droplets on the leaves dry quickly and that there is sufficient air movement, the plant does not thrive in trapped, stagnant air.

Regular fertilization is essential, without it the plant often sheds most of the leaves after they start to die from the edge (called "melting"). Apply a mild complete fertilizer at half concentration every two weeks. Potassium-based fertilizer (e.g. for cacti) produces stronger stems and more robust leaves that do not "melt" as easily.

Remove inflorescences regularly, preferably at an early stage of development. If you don't, the plant will put a lot of energy into the flowers, which can lead to the death of the leaves.

Warning: This is a demanding species that requires a terrarium and careful care for long-term success. Buy Begonia chloristicta online!