Begonia Plum Gorgeous
Basic Information
Common Name: Begonia Plum Gorgeous
Scientific Name: Begonia ‘Plum Gorgeous’
Native Habitat: Hybrid cultivar, origin not specifically defined.
History / Discovery / Cultivator
Begonia ‘Plum Gorgeous’ is a captivating cultivar renowned for its stunning foliage, a characteristic that has propelled it into the spotlight among plant enthusiasts. As a cultivated hybrid, the specific details of its origin and the exact parentage are often guarded secrets of the horticultural world. However, its emergence as a commercially available plant suggests a deliberate and selective breeding program aimed at highlighting desirable traits.
The allure of Begonia ‘Plum Gorgeous’ lies primarily in its striking leaves. These leaves display a deep plum or burgundy hue, providing a dramatic contrast to the typical green foliage often seen in begonias. This deep coloration is often enhanced by a subtle shimmer or metallic sheen, adding to its visual appeal. The underside of the leaves may reveal a contrasting lighter color, further accentuating its unique beauty. The leaf texture can also vary, with some specimens exhibiting a slightly puckered or textured surface.
The exact individual or nursery responsible for the creation of ‘Plum Gorgeous’ remains, for now, unconfirmed. The horticultural industry often sees new varieties emerge through careful cross-pollination and selection processes, driven by a desire to create plants with improved aesthetics, disease resistance, or ease of cultivation. It is highly likely that ‘Plum Gorgeous’ originated from a similar effort, involving the crossing of different begonia species or cultivars to achieve its distinct coloration and form. It’s also possible it was simply a lucky mutation carefully cultivated.
Begonias, as a genus, have a rich history of cultivation, dating back centuries. They are native to tropical and subtropical regions around the world, including South America, Africa, and Asia. The vast diversity within the begonia family has made them popular subjects for hybridization, resulting in a wide array of cultivars with different leaf shapes, colors, and flowering habits. The ‘Plum Gorgeous’ cultivar fits seamlessly into this tradition of horticultural innovation, representing the ongoing efforts to create begonias with ever more captivating characteristics.
Its introduction to the market likely involved a period of propagation and evaluation to ensure its stability and ease of cultivation. Nurseries and horticultural companies play a crucial role in bringing new cultivars to the public, and the success of ‘Plum Gorgeous’ is a testament to their efforts. The plant’s relative ease of care, coupled with its striking appearance, has undoubtedly contributed to its popularity among both experienced and novice plant collectors.
In summary, while the precise history of Begonia ‘Plum Gorgeous’ remains somewhat shrouded in mystery, its beauty and captivating qualities speak volumes about the skill and dedication of those involved in its creation. It is a testament to the endless possibilities that lie within the world of plant breeding and a welcome addition to the ever-growing collection of captivating begonia cultivars.
Plant Care Summary
| Category | General Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Light | Bright Indirect | Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. |
| Water | Moderate | Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering. Avoid overwatering. |
| Humidity | High | Prefers humidity levels above 60%. Use a humidifier or pebble tray. |
| Temp. Range | 65-75°F (18-24°C) | Avoid temperatures below 60°F (15°C). |
| Soil Type | Well-draining | A mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is ideal. |
| Fertilizer | Balanced liquid feed | Dilute fertilizer to half strength and apply every 2-4 weeks during the growing season. |
| Toxicity | Toxic | Toxic to cats and dogs. Ingestion can cause oral irritation, excessive drooling, and vomiting. |
Botanical Insights
Adaptations
Begonia ‘Plum Gorgeous’ exhibits several adaptations common to begonias adapted to thrive in shady, humid environments. Its broad leaves are designed to capture as much light as possible in low-light conditions. The vibrant coloration, though aesthetically pleasing, may also serve as a form of sun protection by filtering out excess light, preventing sun scald in its natural habitat. The slightly succulent stems allow it to store water and withstand short periods of drought. As a cultivated variety, adaptations may also include disease resistance and quicker growth for commercial viability.
Propagation Methods
Begonia ‘Plum Gorgeous’ can be propagated using several methods:
- Stem Cuttings: Take a stem cutting with at least one node and place it in water or directly into moist potting mix. Keep the cutting in a humid environment.
- Leaf Cuttings: Cut a leaf into wedges, ensuring each wedge has a vein. Place the wedges on top of moist potting mix and cover with a humidity dome.
- Rhizome Division: If the plant has a rhizome, it can be carefully divided, ensuring each section has roots and leaves.
Toxicology
Begonia ‘Plum Gorgeous’ contains soluble calcium oxalates, making it toxic to both humans and pets, particularly cats and dogs. If ingested, these oxalates can cause oral irritation, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. In severe cases, it can lead to kidney damage. It is important to keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion is suspected, veterinary or medical advice should be sought immediately.
Common Problems
Pests:
- Mealybugs
- Spider Mites
- Aphids
Diseases:
- Powdery Mildew
- Root Rot
- Botrytis Blight
Other:
- Leaf Spot: Caused by fungal or bacterial infections, often due to poor air circulation or water splashing on leaves.
- Stem Rot: Caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil, leading to fungal growth and stem decay.
- Leaf Scorch: Caused by direct sunlight or overly dry air, resulting in brown, crispy edges on the leaves.
Rarity & Value
Rarity:
While not exceptionally rare, Begonia ‘Plum Gorgeous’ isn’t as widely available as some more common begonia varieties. This limited availability can be attributed to its relatively slower propagation rate compared to other begonias and its specific aesthetic appeal, which caters to a more niche market of plant collectors seeking unique foliage. It also depends on the availability of stock plants at commercial nurseries.
Value:
The value of Begonia ‘Plum Gorgeous’ is influenced by several factors. Larger, more mature specimens with well-established root systems typically command a higher price. The intensity and uniformity of the plum coloration in the leaves play a significant role; plants with deeper, more consistent color are more desirable. Free from pests and diseases will obviously affect its value. Its current popularity with collectors can also drive up the price in some markets.
