Begonia serratipetala has elongated, pointed and deeply indented leaves that are green on top and red underneath. The upper surfaces, especially of young leaves, may also have a reddish tinge. The pale pink flowers have an unusual shape. The distinctive structure at the base of the flowers looks like the winged seeds of a beech tree. At the centre of each flower is a large yellow cluster of stamens or pistils. Begonia serratipetala grows to roughly 40 centimetres.

Begonia serratipetala is best cultivated in a terrarium but can be grown in a pot as a houseplant in a warm and humid room. The temperature needs to be between 20⁰C and 25⁰C with humidity of at least 65% and preferably higher. The temperature must not be less than 10⁰C or more than 30⁰C. The plant needs shade or partial shade. The growing medium must be allowed to dry out before the plant is watered again. A growing medium consisting of peat mixed with a fibrous or hard material such as perlite or coir (coconut fibre) is ideal. See “Plant accessories” for details of this and other useful products. Fertilise twice a month. If Begonia serratipetala threatens to become too big, it can be pruned without adverse effect.