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Begonia tenuissima is a beautiful and delicate begonia species from Borneo, known for its tiny leaves and fine, wiry stems. Like many begonias from this region, it is best suited for a high-humidity environment like a terrarium or vivarium.
Here is a care guide for Begonia tenuissima:
Light:
Bright, indirect light is perfect. This plant grows on the forest floor in its native habitat, so it is not adapted to direct sun.
Avoid direct sunlight at all costs, as it will quickly burn the leaves.
In lower light, the plant will grow more slowly and may become leggy.
Humidity:
Extremely high humidity is essential, with a minimum of 80% to 90% being ideal.
This plant will not thrive in a normal home environment without a humidifier or, more preferably, an enclosed terrarium.
It is highly sensitive to dry air and will often "melt" or shrivel in low humidity.
Watering:
Keep the substrate or soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
The tiny leaves and thin stems are prone to shriveling if the plant dries out.
Ensure there is good drainage to prevent the roots from sitting in stagnant water, which can cause root rot.
Soil/Substrate:
Use a loose, well-draining, and airy mix that retains moisture.
A blend of sphagnum moss, perlite, and a bit of orchid bark is a great option, especially in a terrarium.
A mixture designed for African violets or other high-humidity plants can also work.
Temperature:
This is a tropical plant that prefers warm temperatures, typically in the range of 20-28°C (68-82°F).
It is very sensitive to cold temperatures and drafts.
Other Tips:
Terrarium Life: Begonia tenuissima is an excellent choice for a terrarium because its compact size and need for high humidity align perfectly with that environment.
Foliage: The plant is grown primarily for its attractive foliage and fine texture rather than its flowers, which are inconspicuous.
Propagation: You can propagate this begonia from stem cuttings. Due to its size, a small cutting with just a few leaves and a node can be rooted in moist sphagnum moss inside a high-humidity container.
