If you’re looking for something that looks less like a plant and more like a piece of high-fashion art, you’ve found it. The Begonia maculata, or the 'Polka Dot' Begonia, is easily one of the most dramatic looking plants.
Its common name, "Trout Begonia," comes from those elongated, wing-shaped leaves. They feature a deep olive green top splashed with silver polka dots, while the underside is a stunning, moody burgundy. It’s a showstopper, plain and simple.
Origin
These beauties hail from the Atlantic rainforests of Brazil. They are naturally lithophytic (growing on rocks) or epiphytic, meaning they love a humid, dappled-light environment.
Care guide
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Light: They fancy bright, indirect light. Think of a spot near an east or west-facing window. Too much direct sun will scorch those silver spots, but too little light and the vibrant red underside will start to fade.
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Watering: This is the tricky bit. They like to stay moist but not soggy. Wait until the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch before watering again. Pro tip: try not to get water on the leaves, as they can be prone to powdery mildew.
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Humidity: Being from the rainforest, they crave humidity. A gravel tray with water or a nearby humidifier is ideal. They aren't huge fans of the dry air produced by central heating.
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Feeding: Use a balanced liquid fertiliser roughly once a fortnight during the growing season (spring and summer). Give them a rest over the winter.
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Toxicity: Use caution if you have "curious" flatmates. The Begonia maculata is toxic to both cats and dogs (and humans) if ingested, primarily due to calcium oxalates which cause oral irritation. It’s best kept on a high shelf out of reach of paws and toddlers.
We've found that these plants are surprisingly fast growers if they’re happy—you might even see clusters of delicate white or pink flowers if you treat them right.
Sold without a decorative pot, colour and size may vary slightly.
Local plant delivery or collection available in Belfast and throughout Northern Ireland.
