Begonia corallina 'Wings' – Cane Begonia with Angelic Foliage and Coral Blooms

Begonia corallina 'Wings', often grouped with the cultivar 'Lucerna', is a classic cane-type Angel Wing Begonia known for its upright growth, silvery-spotted leaves, and showy coral-pink flower clusters. Its bamboo-like stems can reach up to 1.5 meters indoors, creating a bold vertical accent in bright rooms or plant corners.
Key Traits of Begonia corallina 'Wings'
 
Leaf Style: Long wing-shaped leaves with metallic silver spots and defined green margins
 
Flowering: Coral-pink clusters from spring to early fall, especially with good light
 
Growth Form: Upright, cane-like stems up to 1.5 m tall; can be pruned for bushier growth
 
Foliage Texture: Smooth, glossy leaves with dramatic contrast under natural light
Origin and Background
This cultivar was first hybridized in 1892 by Dr. Wettstein in Lucerne, Switzerland. As a member of the Angel Wing group, it inherits strong upright growth, distinctive leaf markings, and long bloom periods from its Brazilian begonia ancestors.
Indoor Care Guide for Begonia corallina 'Wings'
 
Light: Provide bright, indirect light for 8–10 hours daily. Avoid harsh direct sun.
 
Watering: Water when the top 2 cm of soil is dry. Always use filtered or distilled water to avoid leaf damage.
 
Humidity: Prefers 60–70%. Use a humidifier or group with other plants to boost local humidity.
 
Temperature: Keep between 18–26 °C. Avoid cold air and rapid temperature changes.
 
Soil: Use a well-draining, airy potting mix based on coir, peat, or composted bark with perlite added for drainage.
 
Fertilizer: Feed monthly during active growth with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer.
 
Repotting: Every 2–3 years, or when roots begin to circle the pot interior.
 
Propagation: Simple via cane or leaf-tip cuttings, in water or moist substrate.
 
Hydroponics: Adapts to semi-hydro systems like LECA with stable nutrients and humidity.
 
Pruning: Pinch or cut growing tips to shape; remove yellowing leaves regularly.
 
Support: Stake taller stems to prevent leaning or breakage as they elongate.
Common Issues and Fixes
 
Leaf Tip Burn: Often caused by dry air or excess salts. Use cleaner water and increase humidity.
 
Yellowing Leaves: Linked to overwatering or sudden cold exposure. Check roots and adjust care.
 
Drooping: Usually underwatering — rehydrate slowly and consistently.
 
Root Rot: Trim soft roots and repot into dry, fresh mix. Avoid dense or soggy soil.
 
Pests: Treat spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
 
Sun Scorch: Brown patches indicate too much direct light — relocate to filtered sun.
Tips for Thriving Growth
 
Match its tropical roots: stable warmth, bright filtered light, and consistently moist air.
 
Keep leaves dry during watering to avoid spotting or mildew.
 
Use a tall pot with weight or stakes to support upright stems as they mature.
Toxicity Warning
Begonia corallina 'Wings' is toxic to pets and humans if ingested due to calcium oxalate crystals. Keep out of reach of animals and children.
Etymology of Begonia corallina 'Wings'
Begonia honors Michel Bégon, a 17th-century French patron of botany. The species name corallina refers to the coral-hued flowers. The cultivar name 'Wings' alludes to the elongated, asymmetrical leaf shape that resembles an angel’s wing. 'Lucerna' references Lucerne, Switzerland, where early selections were made.
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