Begonia luxurians

Common Names

Palm Leaf Begonia, Palm-Leaf Begonia

Summary

Palm-leaf begonia is an evergreen perennial from the rainforests of southeastern Brazil, with upright cane-like stems and large, palm-like leaves divided into 11–15 leaflets radiating from a reddish center; leaves can reach about 40 cm across, and small white or yellow fragrant flowers appear atop the leaves in spring and summer.

Prefers bright indirect light or partial shade with evenly moist, well-draining loamy soil rich in organic matter and a pH of 5.5–6.5; humidity around 50%+; temperatures between 18°C and 24°C; frost-free conditions or indoor cultivation in cooler zones; outdoors in warm climates (USDA zones 9–11) or indoors in cooler zones; propagation by stem cuttings or seeds; can be pruned to maintain bushy form and used in gardens, containers, or interiors.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

8-12 feet

Spread

16-18 inches

Hardiness Zones

Zones 10a-11

Sunlight Requirements

Partial shade to partial sun.

Soil Type

Well-draining, rich loamy soil with high organic matter, mildly acidic to neutral pH 5.5–6.5

Soil Drainage

Well-draining soil that retains moisture without waterlogging; free-draining soil with pH about 5.5–6.5; preferred mixes include peat, perlite, and potting soil (or equal parts peat or coco coir, perlite or pumice, and compost or potting mix); ensure pots have drainage holes.

Soil pH

5.5–6.5

Bloom Color

White

Bloom Time

Spring and Summer

Foliage Color

Green

Fall Foliage Color

Bronze, Bronze Green, Green

Leaf Lifecycle

Evergreen broadleaf

Growth Rate

Rapid-growing; up to 25 cm per season

Seasons of Interest

Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Cuttings, Layering

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts bees and other pollinators (nectar and pollen)