Angel Wing Begonia Begonia 'Argenteo-guttata'

Angel wing begonia is a broadleaf evergreen cultivar in the begonia family (Begoniaceae) that can grow 1 to 2.5 feet high and 1 to 2 feet wide. It is a hybrid between B. aconitifolia and B. coccinea. It is one of a large, diverse group of shrub-like perennial begonias that branch readily and whose stems do not have the woody, bamboo-like appearance that cane-like begonias do. The genus name honors Michael Bégon (1638–1710), governor of French Canada and an enthusiastic plant collector. The cultivar name is Latin for “silver-spotted.”

Angel wing begonia grows well in shade. It tolerates heat, humidity, and morning sun, but avoid midday or afternoon sun. In an area where the sun is intense and summer temperatures are consistently hot, provide dappled shade. 

The best planting mix is loose and coarse, neutral to acidic. Angel wing begonia needs just enough water to keep the leaves crisp. Too much water will rot the roots and stems. Be sure the top of the planting mix is dry to the touch before watering.

The plant may need pruning or staking if it starts to become unruly or misshapen. Regular pinching begun early to encourage branching will produce a fuller plant with more bloom. It is best propagated from tip cuttings, but stem cuttings and division also work. 

This hybrid is noted for its attractive leaves with silver markings on a green background and a red underside that sometimes shines through the leaves. It produces blossoms that are pink or red/burgundy.

Angel wing begonia is not frost hardy and temperatures should not drop below 50 degrees F nor be higher than 86 degrees F. Thus it is often grown as a houseplant or, in the garden, as an annual. Outdoors use it in a container or hanging basket on a patio or planted in a shade garden.

Diseases, Insects, and Other Plant Problems: No insects or diseases are known to be partial to shrub-like begonias other than those which may infest begonias generally. Powdery mildew is sometimes a problem.

VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for "Annuals, Perennials, Vines, and Groundcovers" a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens. 

More information on Begonia.