iron cross begonia
Begonia masoniana
RHS AGM 1993
USDA zones11 to 12
SunHandles partial sun to partial shade
WaterHandles dry to moderate soil
Size12 to 18 inches tall12 to 18 inches wide
- Habit
- Broad
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer, autumn, winter
- Bloom color
- Greenish-white
- Foliage color
- Brown/copper, green, variegated
- Soil types
- Sand, loam, chalk
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Notes
Iron cross begonia (Begonia masoniana) is a perennial for containers and accents, and its patterned leaves add interest in winter. It grows outdoors year-round in USDA zone 11 and warmer, down to about 40°F (4°C). In colder areas, grow it as a houseplant or bring it indoors for winter. This plant likes part sun or part shade and dry to average, sandy, loamy, or chalky soil. The evergreen leaves mix green with brown or copper markings, and small greenish-white flowers appear through the year.
Pairs well with Harlequin pothos, Cardamom, and Giant elephant's ear.
Native range
Asia.
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