Begonia x 'Paulita' 'S'

Begonia ‘Paulita’ is one of the smaller begonias. It has a rosette of green leaves with a reddish tinge. It looks not unlike a dandelion because of the wide, serated edging of its leaves. Begonia ‘Paulita’ produces pink flowers with four tepals all the same size. The male flowers have an attractive cluster of canary yellow stamens. Each flower stem produces several flowers which are fairly large in comparison to the rest of the plant. The size and shape of this plant makes it ideal for a small terrarium.

Begonia ‘Paulita’ requires little attention. It needs plenty of light but must be kept away from direct sunlight especially during the summer months. The ideal temperature for the best possible results is between 20 and 25 C but certainly no lower than 10⁰C or higher than 30⁰C. It requires 70% humidity during the daytime, rising to 90% at night. The growing medium must not be allowed to dry out. If the plant is being cultivated in a terrarium, it will need to be sprayed with rainwater or distilled water in order to prevent it from becoming too dry. Elsewhere, the pot can be placed in a dish with a moderate mount of water. It needs fertilising once every two weeks. Good air circulation in a terrarium will help prevent disease and infection. The recommended growing medium consists of a mixture that includes peat. For more information on this and other useful products, go to ‘Plant accessories’. Begonia ‘Paulita’ S can be pruned as and when necessary.