Passing Storm Begonia

Basic Information

Common Name: Passing Storm Begonia
Scientific Name: Begonia ‘Passing Storm’
Native Habitat: Hybrid; Origin unknown, cultivated variety.

History / Discovery / Cultivator

Begonia ‘Passing Storm’ is a captivating cultivar, a testament to the artistry of plant breeders. Unlike species found in the wild with traceable origins, cultivated begonias like ‘Passing Storm’ are born from deliberate crosses, making their exact “discovery” less a matter of natural find and more a product of horticultural innovation. The precise details of its parentage and the individual or nursery responsible for its creation are unfortunately, not widely documented in available sources.

However, its very name, “Passing Storm,” evokes a sense of transient beauty and dramatic contrast, hinting at the visual characteristics that make it so appealing. ‘Passing Storm’ likely owes its existence to a breeder specializing in Rex begonias or related hybrids. Rex begonias, known for their spectacularly patterned and colored foliage, are frequently used in creating new cultivars. These breeders carefully select parent plants with desirable traits – intense colors, unique textures, disease resistance – and cross them, hoping to produce offspring that surpass the parents in beauty and vigor. The process often involves many generations of selection and refinement.

The obscurity surrounding ‘Passing Storm’s’ origins isn’t unusual in the world of cultivated plants. Many beautiful cultivars, especially within genera like Begonia, are propagated and distributed without complete records of their development. The focus tends to be on the plant’s aesthetic appeal and ease of cultivation, rather than a detailed historical account. What we do know is that ‘Passing Storm’, by its very existence in the market, has garnered enough interest to have been propagated, named, and distributed. Its unique appearance has clearly captivated plant enthusiasts. It likely first appeared within specialty nurseries or private collections before gradually becoming more widely available. As a relatively newer cultivar, its history is still unfolding. It is a reminder that horticultural innovation is an ongoing process, continually adding to the diversity and beauty of the plant kingdom. Further research in nursery records or contacting begonia societies might uncover more details regarding its specific creation. For now, its stunning foliage speaks for itself, a testament to the unknown hands that brought this “storm” of color into the world of begonias.

Plant Care Summary

Botanical Insights

Adaptations

Begonia ‘Passing Storm’ exhibits several adaptations typical of begonias bred for indoor cultivation. Its vibrant foliage, a key feature, results from selective breeding for ornamental appeal rather than specific environmental pressures. The plant’s tolerance for moderate humidity and indirect light reflects its lineage from shade-dwelling species found in tropical regions. Its relatively compact size is also an adaptation favored by breeders for ease of cultivation in smaller spaces. The rhizomatous growth habit, where the plant grows from a creeping stem at or below the soil surface, allows for easier propagation via division, a useful adaptation for growers.

Propagation Methods

The ‘Passing Storm’ Begonia is most commonly propagated by leaf cuttings or rhizome division.

* **Leaf Cuttings:** Select a healthy leaf and make small cuts along the veins on the underside. Place the leaf on a moist propagation medium (e.g., sphagnum moss or perlite) and cover it with a humidity dome or plastic bag. New plantlets will form at the cuts.
* **Rhizome Division:** When repotting, carefully divide the rhizome into sections, ensuring each section has roots and at least one growth point. Plant each section in its own pot.

Toxicology

Begonia ‘Passing Storm’ is toxic to both humans and animals, according to the ASPCA and other sources. Ingestion can cause oral irritation, excessive salivation, and vomiting. The highest concentration of toxins is found in the underground rhizomes, but all parts of the plant contain insoluble calcium oxalates. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian or poison control center immediately. Symptoms in pets include drooling, gagging, and difficulty swallowing. While rarely life-threatening, it can be quite uncomfortable for the animal and warrants prompt attention.

Common Problems

Pests:

• Mealybugs
• Spider Mites
• Aphids

Diseases:

• Powdery Mildew
• Botrytis Blight (Gray Mold)
• Root Rot (caused by overwatering)

Other:

• Leaf Scorch: Caused by direct sunlight.
• Brown Leaf Edges: Caused by low humidity or inconsistent watering.
• Drooping Leaves: Can indicate both overwatering and underwatering. Check the soil moisture level to determine the cause.

Rarity & Value

Rarity:

‘Passing Storm’ is not particularly rare compared to wild begonia species, but it may be less commonly available than more ubiquitous cultivars. Its unique leaf patterns and colors contribute to its desirability, and if propagation proves difficult or the demand is high, its availability could be limited locally or temporarily. Newer hybrids tend to command a premium initially.

Value:

The value of a ‘Passing Storm’ Begonia depends on several factors: size, the vibrancy and pattern of the foliage, and the overall health and maturity of the plant. Larger, well-established specimens with striking coloration command higher prices. Variegation stability also affects value – if a plant consistently produces leaves with the desired patterns it is worth more. Currently, collector trends favoring unique begonias can drive up the price, especially through online marketplaces.