Begonia Northern Lights

Basic Information

Common Name: Begonia Northern Lights

Scientific Name: Begonia ‘Northern Lights’

Native Habitat: Hybrid cultivar, origin unclear, not found in a specific wild habitat.

History / Discovery / Cultivator

Begonia ‘Northern Lights’ is a captivating cultivar, part of the ever-expanding and diverse Begonia family. Unlike species begonias with traceable geographical origins, ‘Northern Lights’ is a hybrid, meaning it was created through intentional cross-pollination of two or more begonia species or cultivars. This deliberate hybridization is a common practice in horticulture, aimed at producing plants with desirable characteristics such as unique leaf patterns, vibrant colors, compact growth habits, or improved disease resistance.

Unfortunately, the precise parentage and the specific individual or nursery responsible for hybridizing ‘Northern Lights’ are often undocumented. The world of begonia hybridization is vast, with countless crosses performed over the years, and meticulous records are not always maintained, particularly for cultivars that emerged before the age of widespread internet documentation. It’s plausible that ‘Northern Lights’ arose from a private breeding program or even a chance mutation discovered within a larger commercial operation.

What is known is that ‘Northern Lights’ has gained considerable popularity within the houseplant community due to its striking foliage. The leaves exhibit a remarkable combination of colors and textures. They often display a deep green to almost black background overlaid with shimmering silver or metallic patterns that resemble the aurora borealis (hence the name). This mesmerizing effect is further enhanced by the puckered or quilted texture of the leaves, adding depth and visual interest.

The precise history remains somewhat elusive. It’s likely that ‘Northern Lights’ emerged sometime in the late 20th or early 21st century, coinciding with a surge of interest in unusual and visually striking foliage plants. It probably first circulated among dedicated begonia enthusiasts before gradually becoming more widely available through nurseries and garden centers.

The lack of definitive historical information shouldn’t diminish the appreciation for ‘Northern Lights’. It stands as a testament to the creativity and dedication of plant breeders who continuously strive to develop new and exciting varieties for plant lovers to enjoy. Its resilience, relative ease of care (compared to some other begonias), and show-stopping appearance have cemented its place as a sought-after cultivar in many houseplant collections. While the exact origin story might remain a mystery, the beauty and allure of Begonia ‘Northern Lights’ are undeniable.

Plant Care Summary

Botanical Insights

Adaptations

Begonia ‘Northern Lights,’ being a hybrid, doesn’t have the same adaptations to a specific wild habitat as a species begonia. However, it exhibits characteristics common to many begonias that allow them to thrive as houseplants. Its preference for bright, indirect light reflects its adaptation to growing beneath a forest canopy in its ancestral species’ native environments. The textured leaves, while primarily aesthetic in ‘Northern Lights’, may help to maximize light capture in low-light conditions, a trait inherited from its parentage. Its sensitivity to overwatering suggests that its root system is adapted to environments with moderate rainfall and well-draining soils. High humidity preference is also an important aspect to consider, as many begonia species enjoy humid climates such as rainforests.

Propagation Methods

Begonia ‘Northern Lights’ can be propagated through several methods, with leaf cuttings and stem cuttings being the most common and successful.

• Leaf Cuttings: A single leaf can be cut into wedges, each containing a major vein. These wedges are then placed on moist sphagnum moss or a well-draining propagation mix. Alternatively, an entire leaf can be placed on the medium with the veins scored in several places. The leaf is then pinned to the propagation medium to maintain contact. Roots and new plantlets will emerge from the cut veins.
• Stem Cuttings: Stem cuttings should be taken from healthy growth. Cut a stem segment with at least one node (where leaves emerge). Remove the lower leaves and place the cutting in water or directly into a moist propagation mix. Rooting hormone can be applied to the cut end to encourage faster root development.

Toxicology

Begonia ‘Northern Lights’ contains soluble oxalates, which are common in many plants. If ingested, these oxalates can cause a burning sensation in the mouth and throat. In humans, ingestion may lead to oral irritation, drooling, and difficulty swallowing. In pets (cats and dogs), similar symptoms can occur, along with vomiting. The severity of the reaction depends on the amount ingested. While generally considered mildly toxic, it’s best to keep the plant out of reach of children and pets who are prone to nibbling on plants. If ingestion occurs, rinse the mouth with water and contact a doctor or veterinarian if symptoms persist or worsen.

Common Problems

Pests:

• Mealybugs
• Spider Mites
• Aphids

Diseases:

• Powdery Mildew
• Botrytis Blight (Grey Mold)
• Root Rot

Other:

• Leaf Yellowing: Often caused by overwatering or inconsistent watering.
• Browning Leaf Tips: Can indicate low humidity or inconsistent watering.
• Leggy Growth: Insufficient light can cause the plant to stretch towards the light source.

Rarity & Value

Rarity:

Begonia ‘Northern Lights’ isn’t generally considered exceptionally rare, but it can be less readily available than common begonias. Its relatively slower growth rate and the somewhat higher level of care it requires compared to simpler begonias may contribute to its perceived scarcity. Also, the unique leaf patterns and textures of particularly stunning specimens may drive up demand, making them harder to find.

Value:

Several factors influence the value of a Begonia ‘Northern Lights’ specimen. The size and overall health of the plant are primary considerations. More mature plants with well-established root systems command higher prices. The intensity and clarity of the silver or metallic patterns on the leaves are also significant. Specimens with exceptionally vibrant and well-defined markings tend to be more valuable. Plant collectors often seek out ‘Northern Lights’ begonias that exhibit unique or unusual variegation patterns, such as particularly striking color contrasts or rare leaf shapes. Finally, general trends can influence the demand and price of Begonia ‘Northern Lights’. If a particular cultivar becomes popular on social media or among collectors, its value may temporarily increase.