I’ve recently added a Begonia Corallina, more commonly known as an Angel Wing Begonia, to my collection of houseplants, and I’m so excited about it! It’s a beautiful, easy-to-care-for plant that adds a touch of color and texture to any room.
With its delicate, heart-shaped leaves and delicate coral-pink flowers, this begonia is the perfect indoor plant addition to my home. In this blog post, I’m going to share my tips and tricks for caring for a Begonia Corallina so you can enjoy this beautiful plant in your home too!
Plant origins
The Angel Wing Begonia is native to South America and is found in the tropical rainforest areas of Brazil, Ecuador, and Peru. It is a hybrid species developed from several species of Begonia. Its scientific name is Begonia Corallina, a member of the Begoniaceae family. It is a popular houseplant because of its olive-green leaves and attractive flowers. It is also used as a garden plant in warmer climates.
Ideal location for Begonia Corallina
Begonia Corallina is a tropical plant that prefers humid climates and bright, indirect sunlight. It does best when planted in well-draining soil in a warm location with temperatures of 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit. Ideal locations for Begonia Corallina include a south-facing window or a sheltered spot in a greenhouse. It should be in a shady spot protected from wind and direct sunlight if planted outdoors.
Humidity Requirements for Begonia Corallina
Begonia Corallina prefers a humidity level of 60-80%. Misting can help maintain this level of humidity. It is also important to keep the soil moist without overwatering.
The humidity around the plant can also be increased by using a humidifier or a pebble tray filled with water. It is also recommended not to place the plant near vents, fans, or air conditioners, as they may dry out the air.
Soil needs for Begonia Corallina
Begonia Corallina is a tropical plant that prefers moist, well-draining soil. For best results, use a potting mix high in organic matter, such as peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. Adding a slow-release fertilizer to the soil can help support growth. Be sure to water regularly, but avoid over-watering, as this can cause root rot. Make sure the soil does not become soggy or waterlogged.
What type of fertilizer should you use?
It is best to use a balanced fertilizer for your Begonia Corallina. A balanced fertilizer will provide the plant with the nutrients it needs to grow and thrive. You can use a liquid fertilizer or a slow-release fertilizer formulated for houseplants. Fertilize your Begonia Corallina monthly during the growing season and every other month during the winter.
It is best to fertilize your Begonia Corallina monthly during the growing season and every other month during the winter.
How much water should the Begonia Corallina receive?
Begonia Corallina should receive approximately 1-2 inches of water per week, depending on the soil and environmental conditions. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings, and don’t let it sit in water for too long. Excess water can cause fungal diseases.
If you live in a warm climate, you may need to water your Begonia Corallina more often during the summer. During the cooler months, you can water the plant less often.
When to water the Begonia
Water your Begonia Corallina when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch. Water until the soil is evenly moist and allow it to drain fully. Generally, it’s best to water your Begonia Corallina in the morning so the plant has the whole day to dry off before nightfall.
How to pot the Begonia Corallina
- Fill a pot that has drainage holes with a well-draining potting mix.
- Carefully remove the Begonia Corallina from its container, making sure to keep as much of the root ball intact as possible.
- Place the Begonia Corallina in the pot and fill in with the potting mix around the root ball.
- Press down gently to ensure the plant is firmly in place.
- Water the Begonia Corallina to help settle the potting mix.
- Place the Begonia Corallina in a bright, indirect sunlight location with temperatures around 65-75°F (18-24°C).
- Water the Begonia Corallina when the top inch of the soil feels dry.
- Feed the Begonia Corallina with a liquid fertilizer every two weeks during spring and summer.
- Reduce watering and fertilizing during winter and allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
- Re-pot the Begonia Corallina every two to three years as needed.
When and how to prune Begonia Corallina
Begonia Corallina should be pruned in late spring after the last frost. Pruning encourages new growth and blooming. Prune by cutting off any dry leaves or damaged stems and leaves. If the plant is getting too large, prune back one-third of the stems to encourage bushier growth. Make sure to use clean, sharp pruning shears and disinfect them between each cut to avoid spreading any disease.
How to propagate a Begonia Corallina
There are two different methods for propagating Begonia Corallina: through seeds and stem cuttings.
1. Propagating Begonia Corallina from Seeds:
Begin by soaking the seeds in lukewarm water for 24 hours. After this, spread the seeds on the surface of a pot filled with potting soil. Make sure to cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil. Keep the pot in a warm place and keep the soil moist. The seeds should germinate in 7-14 days.
2. Propagating Begonia Corallina from Stem Cuttings:
- Take cuttings from the parent plant in the spring or summer from just above the leaf node. Each cutting should be around 4-6 inches in length.
- Remove any leaves on the lower half of the cutting and dip the cut end in a rooting hormone.
- Plant the cuttings in a well-draining potting mix, making sure that the cut end is below the soil line.
- Place the pot in a warm spot with indirect light and water regularly.
- When the cuttings have been rooted, you can transplant them into individual pots and care for them as you would for a mature Begonia Corallina.
What are the different varieties of Begonia Corallina?
Angel wing begonias come in wide varieties, but here are some of the most popular ones:
Frosty: This variety of Begonia Corallina is a compact, upright plant with green foliage and bright pink flowers. The flowers have white centers, and the petals have a frosted appearance. It has a compact habit and is perfect for adding height to a container or garden.
My Special Angel: This variety of Begonia Corallina features pale pink flowers with white centers. The foliage is dark green and glossy. It is an upright grower and is perfect for adding a touch of elegance to a container or garden.
Lucerna: This variety of Begonia Corallina has deep pink flowers with white centers. The foliage is dark green and glossy. This plant is a great choice for adding a pop of color to a container or garden.
Coral Reef: This variety of Begonia Corallina is a low-growing, spreading plant with dark green foliage and bright pink flowers. The petals have a coral-like texture, and the flowers have a sweet, fruity fragrance.
Medora: This variety of Begonia Corallina has vibrant pink flowers with white centers. The foliage is light green and glossy. This plant is perfect for brightening up a container or garden.
Pink Mink: This variety of Begonia Corallina has bright pink flowers with white centers. The foliage is dark green and fuzzy. This plant is perfect for adding texture and interest to a container or garden.
What is the difference between Begonia Corallina and Maculata?
Begonia Corallina and Maculata are both varieties of begonias, a genus of flowering plants in the family Begoniaceae. Despite belonging to the same genus, these two varieties of begonias have several distinct characteristics that set them apart.
Begonia Corallina, also known as the trailing begonia, is a bushy, trailing perennial with small, double flowers that come in pink, white, and coral colors. Its leaves are thick, fleshy, and heart-shaped with shades of green, white, and silver. The stems are thin and long, making them ideal for hanging baskets or trailing from window boxes. This variety of begonia is also known for being quite drought-tolerant and low maintenance.
In contrast, Begonia Maculata, also known as the Polka-Dot Begonia, is a rhizomatous, evergreen perennial. Its leaves are larger and more pointed than those of Begonia Corallina and are marked with silver spots or blotches on the upper surface. The flowers of Begonia Maculata are usually white, pink, or orange in color and have five petals. This variety of begonia prefers higher humidity and moist soil and can be prone to root rot and other diseases if not provided with an adequate environment.
Overall, Begonia Corallina and Maculata are both beautiful varieties of begonias that can add a unique touch to any garden or living space. However, they have distinct characteristics that set them apart, such as their leaves, flowers, and environmental preferences. It’s important to consider these differences when selecting the right begonia for your garden.
Is Begonia Corallina poisonous?
Begonia Corallina is toxic to cats, dogs, and humans if consumed. The plant contains insoluble calcium oxalates, which can cause severe mouth and gastrointestinal tract irritation. Poisoning symptoms include drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, and abdominal pain. In extreme cases, this plant can even cause kidney failure in animals. It is important to keep Begonia Corallina away from pets and small children as it can be very dangerous if ingested.
Do begonias do better in pots or on the ground?
I prefer to grow begonias in pots, as they can be easily moved around to maximize their light exposure or to protect them from extreme temperatures. Additionally, they can be easily watered and fertilized in pots.
Final Thoughts
The Begonia Corallina is an excellent choice for adding a touch of color, texture, and beauty to any home or garden. With proper care, this plant will thrive and produce stunning flowers. Be sure to provide your Begonia Corallina with the right location, soil, water, and fertilizer for optimal growth. With a little bit of time and effort, you will be rewarded with a beautiful, lush, and healthy plant.
I have a corrallina bagonia. I took cuttings from another plant in spring of 2022. It is indoors now because of cold weather. Gray mold has appeared on the leaves. I sprayed with teaspoon of baking soda and one quart of water which seemed to kill the mold but also left some of the leaves with black spots that eventually dried up. Those leaves eventually fell off. That was about 3 weeks or so ago. Now some of the young new leaves are falling off. There are small areas where the mold has returned.
I thought about gutting the stems and starting over.
The plane flourished outside in the shade during the summer.
Your thoughts please