Angel Wing Begonia

Introduction

Begonia x corallina, more commonly known as the Angel Wing Begonia, is a tropical perennial native to Brazil. With its delicate pink and white flowers and striking angel-wing shaped leaves, it is an attractive addition to any home or garden.  The Angel Wing Begonia thrives best in bright, indirect sunlight and moist soil with good drainage. Due to its lush foliage and highly vibrant colors, it enjoys being misted regularly to increase humidity during summer months. Additionally, deadheading old blooms can encourage new growth throughout the season for continuous bloom time. Its care needs are relatively easy which make this plant ideal even for novice gardeners looking for a bit of color in their space.

Angel Wing Begonia Care

Angel Wing Begonias care involves providing bright, indirect light and maintaining moist but well-drained soil. These plants appreciate a warm, humid environment, similar to their native tropical habitats, and regular feeding during their growing season can help support their vibrant color and flowering. Despite their exotic appearance, Angel Wing Begonias are relatively straightforward to care for, even for less experienced gardeners.

Light

Angel Wing Begonias thrive in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can cause their leaves to scorch, so be sure to shield them from harsh, midday rays. However, don't place them in deep shade either, as insufficient light can lead to leaf drop and prevent the plant from flowering.

Soil

A well-draining potting mix is key for these plants, as they're prone to root rot if left in soggy soil. You can use a standard houseplant potting mix and add extra perlite or coarse sand to enhance drainage. These plants prefer slightly acidic to neutral pH levels (6.0-7.0).

Water

Angel Wing Begonias prefer their soil to remain consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top inch of the soil has dried out, ensuring the water drains out the bottom of the pot. Avoid splashing water on the leaves, as this can lead to fungal infections. During the winter, you can reduce watering slightly, but don't let the soil dry out completely.

Temperature and Humidity

These plants appreciate warmth, with ideal temperatures ranging between 65-80 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate temperatures as low as 60 degrees Fahrenheit, but growth may slow. Angel Wing Begonias also love high humidity. If your home is dry, you can increase humidity by placing the plant on a tray of pebbles filled with water, using a room humidifier, or regularly misting the plant.

Fertilizer

Feeding your Angel Wing Begonia regularly during the growing season (spring to early fall) can help it thrive. Use a balanced houseplant fertilizer, and follow the package instructions for the recommended dose. During the winter, you can cut back on feeding or stop altogether, as the plant enters a period of dormancy.