Begonia 'Two Face' – A Unique Bicolored Foliage Beauty
Begonia 'Two Face' is a striking cultivar hybridized by Leslie Woodriff in 1978, known for its remarkable two-toned foliage. This begonia features a silver and pink upper leaf surface, contrasted by a rich burgundy underside. Its free-branching growth habit and compact size make it an excellent addition to both indoor and shaded outdoor plant collections.
What Makes Begonia 'Two Face' Special?
- Unique Dual-Tone Leaves: Silver and pink hues on the upper leaf surface, with a bold burgundy underside.
- Compact and Bushy Growth: Reaches 30-40 cm in height, making it ideal for container gardening.
- Rare Hybrid with a Rich History: Created by renowned breeder Leslie Woodriff, who introduced several iconic begonia cultivars.
- Perfect for Indoor and Shaded Outdoor Spaces: Adapts well to lower light conditions, thriving in bright, indirect light.
Essential Information About Begonia 'Two Face'
- Origin: A hybrid developed in 1978 by Leslie Woodriff.
- Growth Habit: Free-branching and slightly trailing, making it perfect for hanging baskets or terrariums.
- Size and Spread: Typically grows 30-40 cm in height with a moderate spread.
- Toxicity: Contains calcium oxalate crystals and is toxic if ingested by pets or humans.
How to Care for Begonia 'Two Face'
- Light Requirements: Prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorch.
- Watering Needs: Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top layer to dry slightly between waterings.
- Humidity Preferences: Thrives in moderate to high humidity — ideal for terrariums or well-ventilated rooms.
- Temperature Range: Best grown in warm temperatures between 16-24°C. Protect from cold drafts.
- Soil Composition: Requires a well-draining, peat-based potting mix rich in organic matter.
- Repotting and Pot Selection: Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its container.
- Fertilization: Use a diluted balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
- Propagation: Easily propagated via leaf or stem cuttings placed in moist soil.
- Pruning and Maintenance: Trim leggy stems occasionally to maintain compact growth.
Common Issues and Solutions
- Leaf Browning: Can result from low humidity — use a pebble tray or humidifier to increase moisture levels.
- Powdery Mildew: High humidity with poor airflow can lead to fungal issues — ensure proper ventilation.
- Pest Prevention: Occasionally affected by mealybugs or spider mites. Wipe leaves and use neem oil if needed.
Additional Growing Insights
To replicate its natural environment, keep Begonia 'Two Face' in a warm, humid setting with bright indirect light. Its unique bicolored leaves and moderate growth rate make it a fantastic addition to any indoor garden.
Botanical Background
The genus Begonia belongs to the Begoniaceae family, known for its vast diversity of foliage and flowering plants. Begonia 'Two Face' was bred by Leslie Woodriff in 1978, combining stunning aesthetics with easy care.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does Begonia 'Two Face' need high humidity? Yes, it thrives in moderate to high humidity.
- How often should I water it? Water when the top soil layer feels dry, avoiding overwatering.
- Can this plant be grown outdoors? Yes, but only in shaded, warm environments with consistent humidity.
Order Begonia 'Two Face' Today!
Looking for a rare and beautifully variegated plant? Begonia 'Two Face' is an exceptional choice for collectors and foliage lovers. Order now and bring this stunning variety into your collection!
Begonia 'Two Face'
Begonia 'Two Face' is approximately 40 cm tall and comes in a ⌀ 14 cm pot