Begonia soli-mutata, a tropical species from Brazil, owes its spectacular appearance to its dark green leaves with bright green veins. The edges of the leaves are red. The red colour spreads when the plant is exposed to more light. The leaves look quite thick because of the raised lumps on their upper surface which become increasingly apparent as the plant ages. They are also covered in hairs. Begonia soli-mutata produces flowers in bunches of more than ten whitish pink blooms. The overall effect is best described as “eccentric”!

Begonia soli-mutata is one of the easiest begonias to cultivate either in a terrarium or as a potted houseplant. The leaves become increasingly red as they receive more light. Make sure the plant is in at least partial shade. Begonia soli-mutata can withstand temperature as low as 5⁰C, but prefers a temperature between 20 and 25⁰C. It must be watered regularly but the potting mixture must be allowed to dry out before watering again. Humidity is not vitally important for this species of begonia as long as it is between 60 and 80%. It can be given a small amount of fertiliser once or twice a month. A peat-based mixture makes the best growing medium. For more information about this and other useful products, go to “Plant accessories”.