Begonia bowerae 'Tiger' – Compact Jungle Style With Fuzzy Stripes

Begonia bowerae 'Tiger' is a charismatic cultivar known for its bold striped foliage and velvety leaf texture. The asymmetrical olive-green leaves feature dark, almost black markings radiating from the center, bordered by bright lime-green edges that shimmer under light. Fine red hairs cover both leaf surface and stems, enhancing its wild, tactile appeal. Though it looks exotic, this compact hybrid remains easy to care for with the right humidity and light.


Visual Traits of Begonia bowerae 'Tiger'

Foliage Pattern: Tiger-like stripes with vibrant green margins and dark central markings
Leaf Texture: Velvety surface with soft red hairs and pronounced asymmetry
Growth Form: Low, creeping stems form a dense mound up to 30 cm tall and 40 cm wide
Seasonal Traits: Occasional pink flowers; foliage remains the main attraction year-round


Natural Habitat and Hybrid Background
Derived from Begonia bowerae, a species native to southern Mexico, 'Tiger' inherits its love of high humidity and low light from the cloud forests where its wild relatives grow. In nature, these begonias thrive in shaded leaf litter, receiving consistent moisture and filtered light throughout the year.


Care Tips for Begonia bowerae 'Tiger'

Light: Bright, indirect light or filtered shade. Avoid direct sun to protect delicate leaves.
Water: Keep evenly moist. Let the top 2 cm of soil dry slightly before rewatering.
Humidity: Prefers 60–70% humidity. Use a humidifier or place in a terrarium during dry months.
Temperature: Stable 18–26 °C range; protect from cold drafts and sudden drops.
Soil: Use a loose, well-draining mix with perlite, coconut coir, and organic material.
Fertilizer: Feed monthly with a diluted, urea-free liquid fertilizer.
Potting: Repot every 1–2 years into a shallow pot that suits its creeping growth habit.
Propagation: Easily rooted from leaf or stem cuttings under high humidity conditions.
Hydroponics: Not recommended due to fine root hairs prone to rot in inert media.
Pruning: Trim leggy stems or yellow leaves to maintain shape and airflow.


Common Issues and How to Fix Them

Powdery Mildew: Improve air circulation and avoid splashing leaves.
Brown Leaf Tips: Usually a humidity issue — increase ambient moisture.
Leaf Curl or Edge Crispening: Can result from dry air or low light. Relocate and humidify.
Root Rot and Gnats: Caused by overwatering. Let soil dry partially and use sticky traps if needed.
Pests (Mealybugs, Thrips): Treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap.


Best Placement and Styling Suggestions

Perfect for shallow pots, shelf edges, or terrarium bases.
Avoid overhead watering to protect fuzzy leaves from rot.
Group with humidity-loving plants for stable microclimates indoors.


Toxicity Warning
Begonia bowerae 'Tiger' is considered toxic if ingested by pets or humans due to calcium oxalate crystals. Keep out of reach of animals and children.


Etymology of Begonia bowerae 'Tiger'
The genus Begonia honors French administrator and plant collector Michel Bégon. The species name bowerae commemorates Mrs. Bower, an early cultivator of the species. The cultivar name 'Tiger' reflects its dramatic, striped leaf pattern.
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