Trailing/Scandent Begonia (Group)

Basic Information

Common Name: Trailing/Scandent Begonia (Group)

Scientific Name: Begonia Trailing/Scandent Group

Native Habitat: Primarily tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa, and the Americas.

History / Discovery / Cultivator

Trailing or scandent begonias encompass a diverse group of Begonia species and cultivars characterized by their growth habit – they trail, cascade, or climb, rather than growing upright. These begonias are not a single species but rather a collection of various begonias sharing this common growth form. Their origins trace back to the diverse tropical and subtropical regions where Begonia species naturally occur.

The discovery and introduction of these begonias into cultivation is a gradual process that spans centuries. Botanists and plant explorers, from the 17th century onwards, have been pivotal in identifying and collecting Begonia species from around the world. Charles Plumier, a French botanist, is often credited with naming the genus Begonia after Michel Bégon, a French official and patron of botany, in the late 17th century.

The process of collecting, studying, and classifying Begonia species continued into the 18th and 19th centuries, with significant contributions from figures such as Allan Cunningham, who explored and collected plants in Australia and other regions. As more species were identified, their unique characteristics, including the trailing or scandent growth habit, became apparent.

The actual cultivation and popularization of specific trailing/scandent begonias often depend on the particular species or cultivar. Some might have been favored by early plant collectors and introduced to botanical gardens or private collections. Others might have gained prominence later, through the efforts of commercial nurseries and breeders. Specific cultivar names often reflect the breeder or nursery that introduced them.

For example, Begonia solananthera is a species known for its trailing habit and attractive flowers. It’s native to Brazil and has been in cultivation for some time. Similarly, various cultivars of Begonia with trailing habits have been developed through hybridization, often focusing on flower color, foliage patterns, and overall ease of cultivation. These cultivars may not have a single “discoverer” but rather represent the cumulative efforts of breeders over time.

The geographical origins of trailing/scandent begonias are as diverse as the genus itself. Species within this group hail from a variety of locations, including:

• South America: Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador
• Asia: Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines
• Africa: Various regions with tropical and subtropical climates

Understanding the specific species or cultivar is crucial to pinpoint the exact geographical origin and any specific historical details related to its discovery or cultivation. The widespread availability of these begonias today is a testament to their adaptability and the ongoing interest in them from plant enthusiasts and horticulturalists.

Plant Care Summary

Botanical Insights

Adaptations

Trailing/scandent begonias have developed several adaptations that contribute to their survival and success. Their trailing or scandent growth habit allows them to efficiently access sunlight in their often-shaded native environments. By climbing or trailing along branches or rocks, they can reach brighter areas without investing heavily in strong, upright stems. This growth habit also facilitates vegetative propagation, as stems that come into contact with the soil can readily root. Many scandent begonias develop aerial roots that help them attach to surfaces, providing support and access to moisture. Furthermore, the often-succulent stems and leaves of these begonias allow them to store water, enabling them to withstand periods of drought. The wide variety of leaf shapes, sizes, and textures observed in trailing/scandent begonias represents an adaptation to different light and humidity levels in their respective native habitats. Some species have adapted to higher light levels by developing thicker, more succulent leaves, while others have thinner leaves for efficient light capture in shadier environments.

Propagation Methods

Trailing/scandent begonias are relatively easy to propagate, making them popular among plant enthusiasts. The most common propagation methods include:

• Stem Cuttings: This is the most straightforward method. Take a cutting from a healthy stem, ensuring it has at least one node (where leaves emerge). Remove the lower leaves, and place the cutting in water or directly into moist, well-draining soil. Roots should develop within a few weeks.
• Leaf Cuttings: Some trailing/scandent begonias can be propagated from leaf cuttings. Cut a leaf into sections, ensuring each section has a vein. Place these sections on top of moist soil, and cover with a clear container to maintain humidity. Roots and new plantlets will emerge from the cut edges.
• Division: For clump-forming trailing begonias, division can be an effective method. Carefully separate the plant into smaller sections, ensuring each section has roots and stems. Pot each section individually.
• Air Layering: This method involves encouraging roots to develop on a stem while it is still attached to the parent plant. Make a small cut in the stem, apply rooting hormone, and wrap the area with moist sphagnum moss. Cover the moss with plastic wrap to retain moisture. Once roots have developed, cut the stem below the rooted area and pot the new plant.

Toxicology

Trailing/scandent begonias contain soluble calcium oxalates, which are toxic to both humans and pets if ingested. The highest concentration of these oxalates is found in the stems and roots. When ingested, calcium oxalates can cause immediate and intense oral irritation, characterized by a burning sensation in the mouth, excessive drooling, and difficulty swallowing. In humans, the symptoms are usually mild and self-limiting, resolving within a few hours. However, in pets, especially cats and dogs, the effects can be more pronounced due to their smaller size. Pets may exhibit pawing at the mouth, vomiting, and loss of appetite. While fatalities are rare, it is crucial to prevent pets and children from consuming any part of the plant. If ingestion is suspected, immediate veterinary or medical attention should be sought. Treatment typically involves flushing the mouth with water and administering calcium-containing substances to bind the oxalates.

Common Problems

Pests:

• Mealybugs
• Spider Mites
• Aphids

Diseases:

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

Other:

• Leaf Yellowing: Often caused by overwatering or nutrient deficiency.
• Browning Leaf Tips: Typically due to low humidity or inconsistent watering.
• Stem Rot: Resulting from overly wet soil and poor drainage.

Rarity & Value

Rarity:

The rarity of a specific trailing/scandent begonia can vary significantly. Some species and cultivars are widely available, while others are considered rare due to factors like: difficult propagation, slow growth rates, limited availability of mature specimens, and specialized care requirements. Variegated forms, particularly those with stable variegation, often command higher prices and are considered rarer than their non-variegated counterparts. Plants sourced from specific geographical locations or those with unique characteristics not commonly found in cultivation can also be considered rare.

Value:

The market value of a trailing/scandent begonia depends on several factors: plant size and maturity (larger, more mature plants generally fetch higher prices), the quality and stability of variegation (highly variegated and stable forms are more valuable), the overall health and condition of the plant, the current collector trends (some species or cultivars experience surges in popularity), and the plant’s provenance (plants from reputable sources or those with documented histories may be more valuable). Also, the difficulty of propagation and overall availability plays a significant role. The more difficult and rare the plant, the higher the value tends to be.