Begonia heracleifolia

In terms of height, Begonia heracleifolia stays fairly low but it can cover quite a large surface area. Its pale pink flowers -- more than 10 at a time on vertical stalks - are every bit as striking as its leaves. Star-shaped leaf veins are encircled by light green that changes abruptly and dramatically into dark purple and black. Begonia heracleifolia comes from Central America and makes an excellent houseplant.

Begonia heracleifolia can be grown in a terrarium or in a pot indoors. The best temperature is around 22⁰C and certainly no lower than 15⁰C or higher than 30⁰C. Humidity of 70% is sufficient during the daytime, but needs to be 20% at night. Sphagnum moss around the base of the plant or a peat-based mixture will prevent the growing medium from drying out. A mixture of peat and perlite makes a suitable substrate and ensures effective drainage. See “Plant accessories” for details of this and other useful products. If Begonia heracleifolia is grown in a terrarium, make sure it has good ventilation. It can be pruned if its size becomes a problem.