Begonia pavonina
Begonia pavonina
Peacock Begonia
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Taxonomy
Family Begoniaceae · Genus Begonia
Description
Begonia pavonina, the peacock begonia, dazzles with metallic blue, iridescent leaves that glow in low light. A cool, humid, understory specialist, it’s best grown in a terrarium or a carefully controlled indoor spot where gentle light and consistent moisture keep it happy.
Common Names
Peacock BegoniaBlue Iridescent BegoniaBlue Begonia
Context
nativeRegion
Montane rainforest understories of Peninsular Malaysia (cloud-forest habitats).
usdaZones
10–11 (greenhouse/indoors preferred; not frost hardy).
companionPlants
Selaginella uncinata, Ludisia discolor (Jewel Orchid), Fittonia, Pilea, Ferns (e.g., Microsorum, Asplenium), Mosses
culturalUses
Grown as an ornamental and terrarium showpiece; notable in scientific studies for leaf iridescence and light-harvesting properties.
Care
Care Requirements
LightLow to medium, dappled/indirect light. Iridescence shows best in dimmer light; avoid direct sun.
WateringKeep evenly moist, never soggy. Use soft or rainwater if possible; allow the top 1–2 cm to barely dry.
SoilAiry, fast-draining, slightly acidic mix: fine bark + perlite/pumice + peat/coco + some sphagnum.
FertilizerDilute, low-salt balanced feed at 1/4–1/2 strength every 3–4 weeks spring–summer; minimal in winter.
HumidityHigh (65–90%) with good airflow. Terrarium or grow cabinet ideal; avoid stagnant, wet leaves.
TemperatureCool-warm tropical: 60–75°F (15–24°C) days, 55–65°F (13–18°C) nights. Avoid >82°F (28°C) and <55°F (13°C).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitRhizomatous, clumping to creeping understory begonia with broad, iridescent leaves.
Mature Size8–12 in (20–30 cm) tall, 12–18 in (30–45 cm) wide in cultivation.
Growth RateSlow to moderate under cool, humid, stable conditions.
BloomingSmall white to pinkish flowers on short stalks, seasonally in warm months; foliage is the main attraction.
DormancyNo true dormancy; may slow markedly in cooler, darker months.
Propagation
MethodsRhizome division, Leaf cuttings (with veins pinned to moist media), Petiole cuttings, Tissue culture
DifficultyModerate to challenging; requires high humidity and sterile, airy media for best success.
Best SeasonSpring to early summer when growth is active.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningRemove yellowing or damaged leaves and spent inflorescences; trim rhizomes lightly to shape and encourage branching.
RepottingEvery 12–24 months in spring; move to a shallow, slightly wider pot with fresh airy mix.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for mealybugs, spider mites, thrips, and fungus gnats. Susceptible to root rot, leaf spot, and botrytis in stagnant humidity; ensure airflow and avoid waterlogged media.
ToxicityMildly to moderately toxic to pets if ingested (insoluble oxalates), especially rhizomes/roots.
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