Have you ever seen this type of Begonia before? Begonia Ferox is a quite recently discovered species and although it might look like an unfriendly new member to the plant family, get ready to be surprised.
Begonia Ferox
Hailing from the limestone regions of China, Begonia Ferox features ferociously bulleted leaves that belong in every begonia fanatic's collection. Begonia Ferox is a species of flowering plant in the Begoniaceae family, native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia and Africa. Begonia Ferox got its name due to its fierce-looking leaves with very prominent bullae.
Begonia Melanobullata?
At maturity, this plant closely resembles Begonia melanobullata, but is distinguished by the sharply accuminated apex of the leaves (i.e. the leaves come to a more dramatic point). It is also a bit slower to develop its iconic bullae. This begonia will thrive in high humidity, but be sure it also has some airflow.
Ferox Begonia Has Fiery Looks
With its fiery look, no, the Begonia Ferox does not have the most approachable looks of all plants. As one of the members of the diverse Begoniaceae family members, this unique plant is definitely known for its unusual qualities and appearance. Although botanists find it hard to believe that this type of plant is not highly popular among people, perhaps it's the fiery appearance of the plant. Let's find out what this spikey plant with black cones is all about. A little hint: it is actually among those plants that feel good to touch.
What Is the Origin of Begonia Ferox?
This unusual but beautiful plant is native to the country of China. Southwestern parts of China, especially Guangxi, are the central hub of the Begonia family and, of course, Begonia Ferox. Limestone rocks are Begonia’s natural habitat location and the area of Guangxi is abundant with it. China is home to a diverse category of plant families with Begonia Ferox as one of them.
Ferox Begonia Is Easy To Grow
The Begonia Ferox grows efficiently in moist soil in a moderate amount of light. The plant will easily sustain itself in these circumstances, although the presence of natural light, in particular, is not necessary. You can speak of a terrarium culture that the Ferox prefers, but just keep track of air dryness and avoid a low humidity percentage in the area of its growth.
Looks Can Be Deceiving
The foliage of the Begonia Ferox is what's causing the most jaw-dropping effects when you first get your eyes on it. When mature, it contains a mix of raised black cones that almost resemble teeth, though not sharp to the touch. The tip of black each cone initially grows a single hair which falls off within time. The cones (bullae) actually appear gradually as the plant matures, with new leaves coming out a flat green. As mature plants, they look very similar to each other, having sturdy leaves. The plant requires a terrarium culture and is easy to grow and propagate. So what are you waiting for, plant people? Isn't this THE must-have plant for 2021 to enhance the plant-posse in your window sill or terrarium? If only we could get our hands on one...
Care of Begonia Ferox
Begonia Ferox is commonly known as the "tough begonia" due to its ability to withstand adverse growing conditions, but it is also highly valued for its ornamental qualities. It is often used as an indoor plant, as well as in gardens and public landscapes in warmer climates.
- Bright, indirect light
- 45 to 95 degrees
- Humidity 60% or more
- Grow in a terrarium or greenhouse
- 12 to 18 inches tall
- Water when the top two inches of soil are dry
Propagation of the Ferox Begonia
This species propagates easily from whole leaves or leaf sections. It is best to have a petiole of .5-1 inch, as leaf sections are more prone to rot. Even immature leaves, without bullae, will germinate easily from leaf cuttings.
