Name
Classifications and Characteristics
| Plant Growth Form | Herbaceous Plant |
|---|---|
| Lifespan (in Singapore) | Perennial |
Biogeography
| Native Distribution | Origin unknown - this species was first introduced into the horticultural trade by Dale Sena, who purchased it from a plant market in Thailand. |
|---|---|
| Preferred Climate Zone | Tropical |
Description and Ethnobotany
| Growth Form | Rhizomatous begonia to 50 cm tall |
|---|---|
| Foliage | Leaves ovate, glabrous, upper surface very dark green appearing almost black, under surface of leaves sparsely hairy, burgundy red. Petioles red with pale red hairs. |
| Flowers | Male and female flowers opening white tinged with pink |
Landscaping Features
| Desirable Plant Features | Ornamental Flowers, Ornamental Foliage |
|---|---|
| Landscape Uses | Small Gardens, Indoor Plant, Container Planting, Suitable for Hanging Baskets |
Fauna, Pollination and Dispersal
| Pollination Method(s) | Biotic (Fauna) |
|---|
Plant Care and Propagation
| Light Preference | Semi-Shade, [Remarks] (Prefers high humidity and well drained soil. Do not over water as this can cause the rhizomes to rot.) |
|---|---|
| Water Preference | Moderate Water, Occasional Misting |
| Plant Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Rootzone Tolerance | Moist Soils, Well-Drained Soils, Fertile Loamy Soils |
| Fertilizing | Slow release fertilizer pellets can be incorporated into the planting mix/ media |
| Pest(s) | Sucking Insects |
| Propagation Method | Stem Cutting, Leaf Cutting |
Foliar
| Foliage Retention | Evergreen |
|---|---|
| Mature Foliage Colour(s) | Black, Green, Red |
Floral (Angiosperm)
| Flower Colour(s) | Pink, White |
|---|---|
| Flower Texture(s) | Smooth, Thin |
| Flower Grouping | Cluster / Inflorescence |
| Flowering Period | Free-Flowering |
| Flower Lifespan on Plant | Several Days |
Image Repository
Others
| Master ID | 31065 |
|---|---|
| Species ID | 5452 |
| Flora Disclaimer | The information in this website has been compiled from reliable sources, such as reference works on medicinal plants. It is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment and NParks does not purport to provide any medical advice. Readers should always consult his/her physician before using or consuming a plant for medicinal purposes. |
