My Special Angel Begonia
Basic Information
Common Name: My Special Angel Begonia
Scientific Name: Begonia ‘My Special Angel’
Native Habitat: Hybrid; origin unknown.
History / Discovery / Cultivator
Begonia ‘My Special Angel’ is a captivating cultivar of Begonia, celebrated for its distinctive foliage and graceful form. As a hybrid, its exact parentage and origin are somewhat shrouded in mystery, adding to its allure. Unlike species with a known natural habitat, ‘My Special Angel’ was intentionally bred, most likely by a begonia enthusiast or commercial grower, to showcase specific desirable traits. Without specific breeder information available in many sources, pinpointing the exact creator or year of introduction proves challenging. Many begonias are patented, but a patent search does not indicate ‘My Special Angel’ had been patented.
The appeal of this begonia lies in its angel-wing shape, which is reminiscent of other Begonia coccinea derived hybrids. The leaves exhibit a striking combination of colors and textures, creating a visually stunning effect. The silver spotting on the dark green leaves, combined with the reddish undersides, provides a constant visual contrast that makes it a popular choice among plant collectors and interior decorators. Its upright, cane-like growth habit also contributes to its architectural appeal, making it an excellent plant for display on shelves, tables, or in hanging baskets.
Although the exact details of its creation remain elusive, ‘My Special Angel’ has found a widespread audience among begonia enthusiasts due to its relative ease of care and its captivating aesthetic qualities. It has become a popular addition to indoor plant collections worldwide, often shared and propagated through cuttings among plant lovers. It’s a testament to the endless possibilities of hybridization and the enduring appeal of begonias as ornamental plants. The begonia genus, boasting over 1,800 species and countless cultivars, continues to surprise and delight with its diverse forms and colors, and ‘My Special Angel’ certainly embodies this spirit of botanical artistry. Its continued popularity underscores the plant’s success in capturing the hearts of plant enthusiasts and securing a lasting place in the world of cultivated begonias. The search continues to uncover more definitive background on this particularly enchanting cultivar.
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 between waterings. Avoid overwatering. |
| Humidity | Moderate to High | Prefers humidity, especially in dry climates. |
| Temp. Range | 65-75°F (18-24°C) | Avoid extreme temperature fluctuations. |
| Soil Type | Well-draining | A mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite works well. |
| Fertilizer | Balanced Liquid | Feed every 2-4 weeks during the growing season. |
| Toxicity | Toxic to pets | Contains soluble calcium oxalates, causing oral irritation if ingested. |
Botanical Insights
Adaptations
‘My Special Angel’ Begonia, being a hybrid, doesn’t have specific adaptations to a single native environment. However, its cane-like growth allows it to reach for light in shadier conditions, mimicking adaptations seen in forest understory plants. The red undersides of the leaves might serve to reflect light back into the leaf for increased photosynthesis or deter herbivores. Its ability to be propagated easily from cuttings is also an advantageous adaptation for cultivation. As a houseplant, its tolerance of moderate humidity helps it thrive in indoor environments.
Propagation Methods
‘My Special Angel’ is easily propagated through stem cuttings. Take a cutting with a few leaves and place it in water or directly into a well-draining potting mix. Leaf cuttings can also be successful, though they may take longer to root. Division is possible for larger, more established plants.
Toxicology
‘My Special Angel’ Begonia contains soluble calcium oxalates. If ingested, especially by cats or dogs, it can cause oral irritation, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. While typically not life-threatening, veterinary attention might be required for severe reactions. It is recommended to keep this plant out of reach of pets and small children.
Common Problems
Pests:
- Mealybugs
- Spider mites
- Aphids
Diseases:
- Powdery mildew
- Root rot
- Bacterial leaf spot
Other:
- Leaf yellowing – overwatering, nutrient deficiency, or low light.
- Brown, crispy leaf edges – low humidity or inconsistent watering.
- Leggy growth – insufficient light.
Rarity & Value
Rarity:
‘My Special Angel’ Begonia is not considered particularly rare. It’s widely available in garden centers and online retailers. However, exceptionally well-grown specimens with particularly striking foliage might command a higher price. Plants with especially large leaves or unusual silver spotting may be sought after by collectors.
Value:
The value of a ‘My Special Angel’ Begonia is primarily determined by its size, health, and the visual appeal of its foliage. A larger, well-established plant with vibrant colors and minimal damage will be more valuable. Plants grown in decorative pots can also command higher prices.
