Selling Size: Single Plant
Begonia sp. Sarawak is a beautiful, low-growing, and trailing begonia species from Borneo, known for its dark green leaves with a striking bluish iridescence. It's often compared to Begonia lichenora and is best suited for a terrarium or humid greenhouse environment due to its specific needs.
Here's a breakdown of Begonia SP Sarawak's care:
1. Light:
Bright, indirect light is ideal. This means a spot near a window with filtered sunlight or partial shade.
Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the delicate leaves.
Lower light levels can enhance its blue iridescence.
2. Humidity:
Crucial! This is perhaps the most important factor for Begonia sp. Sarawak. It requires very high humidity, ideally 75-90% or higher.
Terrarium, vivarium, or glass dome cultivation is highly recommended to maintain these levels.
Normal household humidity is often insufficient and can lead to the plant melting or struggling.
While misting can help, it's generally not enough to provide the consistent high humidity this plant needs. Ensure good air circulation, especially if misting, to prevent fungal issues.
3. Temperature:
Prefers warm, consistent temperatures.
An optimal range is generally 18-29°C (65-84°F).
Avoid temperatures below 10°C (50°F) as it can stop growing, and temperatures below 5°C (40°F) can be fatal.
Protect from drafts.
4. Watering:
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Allow the top layer of soil to become slightly dry before watering again.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Some sources suggest it prefers crawling on moss, implying a medium that stays consistently damp without being soggy.
5. Soil:
Use a well-draining, lightweight, and organic-rich soil mix.
A mixture of peat moss, sphagnum moss, and perlite is often recommended. A commercial African violet mix can also work.
An acidic soil is generally preferred.
6. Fertilization:
Low to moderate fertilization during the growing season (spring and summer).
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength.
Reduce or stop fertilizing during the winter months when growth slows.
7. Potting/Placement:
Repot every 1-2 years or when it outgrows its pot, choosing a pot with good drainage.
Due to its prostrate (creeping) growth habit and high humidity requirements, it's ideally suited for terrariums, greenhouses, or enclosed displays. It can grow against the back wall of a terrarium.
8. Pests:
Like other begonias, it can be susceptible to common houseplant pests such as aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites.
Inspect your plant regularly and treat any infestations promptly with appropriate methods like insecticidal soap or neem oil.
By providing these specific conditions, particularly the high humidity, you'll give your Begonia sp. Sarawak the best chance to thrive and showcase its unique beauty.
