Begonia brevirimosa Ssp. in 9 cm pot

Commonly referred to as the Exotic Begonia.   Native to Papua New Guinea and the Bismarck Archipelago (New Britain).

This highly prized specimen is renowned for its spectacular foliage, which features striking pink to magenta markings that contrast vividly against deep green-black, glossy leaves.  This species exhibits an upright, bushy growth habit, with large, asymmetrical leaves.  Simply stunning!

For optimal growth, provide Begonia brevirimosa with good shade. While it can tolerate moderately brighter light levels, its vibrant leaf colours are most pronounced with low filtered sunlight. Plant it in a well-draining, peat-based potting mix with added perlite or sand to prevent waterlogging. Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but never soggy, and reduce watering during cooler months.

Maintain a warm, humid environment with daytime temperatures between 20-28°C and nighttime temperatures of 15-20°C. This species thrives in humidity levels above 60%, so regular misting, placement near a humidifier, or cultivation in a terrarium is beneficial. Avoid exposing the plant to cold drafts or sudden temperature changes. Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength during its active growing season to promote lush foliage.