Begonia species 'India U614'

Begonia sp. ‘India U614’ is a rare Begonia species that has recently become available as an ornamental plant. Since its discovery, it still has not been given an official scientific name yet. Hence the code name “U614”. The leaves of this species are very pointy and whimsical. The sideways-oriented leaf base runs to the outer tips of the heavily serrated leaves. The leaf margins are a very dark green with a lighter green base coloration. The venation could be reddish in some circumstances. The undersides of the leaves are a darker burgundy to dark green, depending on the level of light. Mature plants reach about 60 cm in height and could form a bush. Flowers are white to light purple and with all species from the begonia family, they are either male or female. Propagation is done by leaf cuttings or seeds when both sexes of flowers are present.

Provide Begonia sp. ‘India U614’ with relative cool temperatures between 10 and 25 degrees Celsius. It has been suggested that this species is tolerant to light frost, but this is not confirmed yet. It is possible to grow this species outdoors from spring to the end of summer in a shady spot. Indoors, provide a relatively high humidity of at least 70%. Place the plant in a half-shaded or semi bright spot without direct sunlight. Direct sunlight could burn the leaves. Pot the species in a humus rich, airy soil that can retain lots of water. Prevent this plant from drying out at all times but do not let the soil become soggy. Fertilize this plant monthly with green plant fertilizer, half the recommended dosage.