Origin
Begonia macrura Gilg is a plant species native to Tanzania, a country located in East Africa. It grows mainly in the Uluguru Mountains, which is a lush tropical region with high humidity and rainfall.
Common Names
The species has several common names, including the Uluguru begonia or long-tailed begonia.
Description
Begonia macrura Gilg is a herbaceous plant that forms a rosette of leaves at its base and grows up to 20 cm in height. The leaves are green in color and have a heart-shaped appearance, with shallow lobes and a pointed tip. The plant's stem is thin and elongated and has a reddish hue.
One of the most distinctive features of this plant species is the long and thin inflorescence, which can grow up to 50 cm in length. The flowers are tiny and pink in color and are arranged in clusters along the inflorescence.
Uses
Begonia macrura Gilg is a popular ornamental plant due to its unique appearance. It is mostly cultivated in greenhouses or indoors and used as a decorative plant in homes, offices, or public spaces. In its native region, this species is also used in traditional medicine to treat ailments such as fever, diarrhea, or stomach ulcers.
Light Requirements
Begonia macrura Gilg generally requires bright, indirect light for optimal growth. Direct sunlight, particularly during the hotter parts of the day can scorch its leaves. It is best to place this plant near a window that receives bright but filtered light. If the plant doesn't receive enough light, it may become leggy and start dropping leaves.
Temperature Requirements
Begonia macrura Gilg thrives in moderate to warm temperatures ranging from 15-26°C (60-80°F). The plant cannot tolerate temperatures below 10°C (50°F), so it is best to keep it indoors during the colder months. Avoid placing the plant near air conditioning units, as this plant prefers a stable temperature environment.
Soil Requirements
This plant thrives in well-draining, slightly acidic soil with a pH range between 5.5-6.5. Garden soil may not be the best option for this plant, as it can hold too much water, leading to root rot. Instead, use a mixture of peat moss, perlite, and pine bark or coconut coir to create a well-draining soil mix. When potting the Begonia macrura Gilg, make sure the pot has drainage holes at the bottom to prevent water from accumulating in the base of the pot.
Cultivation of Begonia macrura Gilg
Begonia macrura Gilg is a popular plant among gardeners and indoor plant lovers due to its beautiful foliage. It can be grown outdoors in tropical/subtropical climates and indoors in temperate regions. The plant prefers partial shade, well-drained soil, and high humidity.
Watering Needs for Begonia macrura Gilg
Begonia macrura Gilg requires consistent watering to keep the soil moist. However, overwatering can cause the roots to rot, so it is important to use a well-draining soil to avoid waterlogging. Always check the soil moisture and water when the topsoil is dry to the touch.
Fertilization of Begonia macrura Gilg
Begonia macrura Gilg benefits from regular fertilization to promote healthy growth. Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every three weeks during the growing season. Reduce the frequency to every six weeks during the dormant season.
Pruning of Begonia macrura Gilg
Begonia macrura Gilg requires minimal pruning. Remove any dead, yellowing or damaged foliage as soon as possible to prevent the spread of diseases. Pinch back the tips of the plant to promote bushier growth and to control the overall size. Regular pruning will keep the plant looking neat and tidy.
Propagation of Begonia macrura Gilg
Begonia macrura Gilg is a beautiful and popular plant amongst gardeners. It is perennial and native to Tanzania and Kenya. Propagation of this plant can be done in various ways, including:
Propagating via stem cuttings
One popular way of propagating Begonia macrura Gilg is via stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is during the spring and summer. Using a clean and sharp knife or scissors, take a stem cutting that is around 3 inches long, making sure to cut below a node.
Remove all the bottom leaves, leaving around two or three at the top. Dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone to encourage the growth of roots, and then plant the stem cutting into a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a warm and bright area with no direct sunlight.
The cutting should take root in a month or two, and new growth should start to emerge. After around six months, the plant should be established enough to transplant to its permanent location.
Propagating via division
Begonia macrura Gilg can also be propagated via division. This method should only be done during the spring or summer when the plant is actively growing.
Carefully remove the plant from its pot or garden bed, making sure to keep the roots intact. Separate the plant into smaller sections, each with its own roots and stems. Plant each division into its own pot or garden bed, making sure to water and care for them until they establish themselves.
Propagating via seeds
Propagation via seeds is also possible with Begonia macrura Gilg. However, this method can be more time-consuming and requires more patience, as it takes longer for the plant to grow to maturity.
Once the plant has formed seeds, collect them and allow them to dry. Sow the seeds into well-draining soil, cover with a thin layer of soil, and water gently. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a warm and bright area with no direct sunlight.
The seeds should take around two to three weeks to germinate. After germination, thin out the weaker seedlings, leaving only the healthiest ones to grow. After around six months, the plants should be established enough to transplant to their permanent location.
Disease and Pest Management for Begonia macrura Gilg
Begonia macrura Gilg is a popular houseplant that is known for its interesting foliage and beautiful flowers. However, like all other plants, it is vulnerable to a variety of diseases and pests that can affect its growth and development. Given below are some common diseases and pests that might affect Begonia macrura Gilg and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Botrytis Blight: This fungal disease is caused by Botrytis cinerea, which attacks the flowers and leaves of the plant, causing them to wither and rot. The best method of prevention is to ensure proper air circulation around the plant and to avoid overhead watering. In case of an infection, remove the affected parts of the plant, and apply a fungicide spray to the remaining leaves and flowers.
Mildew: Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that primarily affects the leaves of the plant, causing white powdery patches on their surface. It can be prevented by providing adequate air circulation and spacing between the plants. Fungicides such as neem oil or sulfur can also be applied to the affected areas to control the disease.
Leaf Spot: Caused by the fungus Cercospora, this disease results in yellowish-brown spots on the leaves of the begonia plant. To prevent it, avoid overhead watering and keep the foliage dry. In case of an infection, remove the affected leaves and spray the remaining plant with a fungicide.
Pests
Spider Mites: These tiny arachnids are a common pest that infest begonia plants, causing yellowing and curling of the leaves. To eliminate them, try to keep the area around the plant free of dust and debris, and use an insecticide soap or oil spray to smother the pests.
Mealybugs: These small, white, cotton-like insects are a common pest that feeds on the sap of the plant, causing leaves to yellow and fall off. They can be removed from the plant by dabbing them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or by using an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray.
Scale Insects: These pests attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the plant, sucking the sap out of the plant and causing it to weaken and die. To control them, remove them from the plant with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or use an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray.
By following these tips and techniques, you can keep your Begonia macrura Gilg healthy and free from diseases and pests.
