Begonia sp. 'Ngoc Lac' – Rare Velvet Begonia with Iridescent Leaf Texture


Begonia sp. 'Ngoc Lac' is a rare, yet-to-be-formally-described species collected from the Ngọc Lặc district in Vietnam. Its velvety, dark foliage glows with deep metallic tones — ranging from bronze and burgundy to subtle emerald and black depending on the light. Each asymmetric leaf is edged with fine serration and covered in tiny reflective hairs, giving it a jewel-like quality that sets it apart from more common species. Compact, slow-growing, and truly unique, this Begonia thrives in terrarium-like conditions where humidity and light can be carefully controlled. A must-have for collectors who appreciate botanical rarity and texture over size.
 
● Leaf Form and Colour of Begonia 'Ngoc Lac'


Leaf shape: Asymmetrical, ovate to slightly lobed with subtle serration
Colour: Dark velvety base with metallic sheen — shifts between copper, wine-red, and green
Growth habit: Low-growing, rhizomatous with tight internodes
Indoor size: Stays compact — typically 15 – 25 cm in both height and spread
Surface texture: Covered in fine reflective hairs, giving a shimmering velvet finish
 
● Habitat and Origin of Begonia sp. 'Ngoc Lac'


This unidentified Begonia was discovered in shaded limestone outcrops and moist forest understorey in Ngọc Lặc, Thanh Hóa Province, Vietnam. The region experiences a humid subtropical climate with high annual rainfall and dense vegetation. Like many Southeast Asian Begonia species, it grows in leaf litter and moss-covered rock, where airflow is constant and moisture stable. Though not yet officially named, it’s known in cultivation for its stunning foliage and terrarium suitability.
Caution: As with most Begonia species, it is considered toxic if ingested. Keep out of reach of pets and children.
 
● How to Care for Begonia 'Ngoc Lac'


Light: Bright, filtered light or LED grow lights — avoid direct sun to prevent scorch
Watering: Keep substrate lightly moist at all times; avoid letting it dry out completely
Humidity: Requires high humidity (70 – 90%) — ideal for glass cabinets or terrariums
Temperature: Prefers 20 – 26 °C with no cold drafts or sudden drops
Soil: Loose, well-draining mix with leaf litter, fine bark, and perlite
Repotting: Every 1 – 2 years, or when growth visibly fills the container
Fertilising: Use a diluted fertiliser every 4 – 6 weeks during active growth
Propagation: Rhizome cuttings or leaf propagation on moist sphagnum
Hydroponics: Not suitable — prefers organic substrate with airflow around roots
Pruning: Remove spent leaves to improve airflow and prevent fungal issues
 
● Common Problems with Begonia 'Ngoc Lac'


Crispy edges: Usually from low humidity — move to a more humid environment or enclosed setup
Leaf drop: Can result from overwatering, poor airflow, or temperature swings
Powdery mildew: Improve ventilation and avoid wetting leaves during watering
Fungus gnats: Let the topsoil dry slightly between waterings and use airy substrate
Rhizome rot: Avoid stagnant conditions; ensure drainage and gentle watering routine
 
● Extra Growing Insights for Begonia 'Ngoc Lac'


Begonia sp. 'Ngoc Lac' performs best in stable, enclosed environments where humidity and light are consistent. It thrives in terrarium setups with gentle airflow, low-intensity grow lights, and soft moisture control. Mimicking its natural forest floor habitat — warm, shaded, and moist — will reward you with slow but steady foliage growth and unbeatable visual texture. Avoid rapid swings in humidity or light to prevent leaf stress or rot.
 
● Etymology and Taxonomic Notes on Begonia


Begonia is named in honour of Michel Bégon, a French plant collector and governor of Saint-Domingue (now Haiti). The species name has not yet been formally published, but the provisional name 'Ngoc Lac' refers to its collection locality in northern Vietnam, where many jewel-like Begonia types originate from limestone karst microhabitats.
 
● FAQs about Begonia 'Ngoc Lac'


Is this species officially described? No, it’s still undescribed in scientific literature, but widely known in cultivation as 'Ngoc Lac'.
Can it be grown outside a terrarium? Only in very humid environments — indoors it thrives in closed or semi-closed cabinets.
Does it flower? It can, but foliage is the main attraction — flowers are small and pale in comparison.
 
● Buy Begonia sp. 'Ngoc Lac' Now


Rare, velvety, and beautifully compact — Begonia sp. 'Ngoc Lac' is a true gem for terrarium lovers and collectors. Order now and grow a piece of botanical Vietnam in your own home.