Begonia maculata is a beautiful plant in every respect. It is also easy to cultivate. Its narrow, leaves have vibrant white spots that contrast dramatically with their olive-green surroundings. The undersides of the leaves vary in colour from red to purple. The two halves of the leaves are clearly asymmetrical. Begonia maculata produces clusters of more than ten white flowers that can be male or female with bright yellow stamens or pistils

Begonia maculata is easy to care for either as a house plant or in a terrarium. Like many other begonias, it likes plenty of light. However, in summer its leaves must not be exposed to harsh, direct sunlight. A temperature of 20⁰C during the day and 15⁰C at night is best. If the plant is being grown in a pot, place it in a dish containing water in order to ensure the potting medium remains moist. Tepid (lukewarm) water is best for this purpose. Humidity needs to be around 70% during the daytime and 90% at night. Begonia maculata benefits from being fertilised regularly 2 or 3 times a month. A mixture of peat and another substrate forms a good growing mixture. See “Plant accessories” for more information about these and other useful products.